Floods Disrupt Business in Western Fiji Towns: What’s Next?

Businesses in various towns within Fiji’s western division, particularly Ba and Rakiraki, faced significant challenges due to recent adverse weather conditions. Many establishments were forced to close as rising water levels inundated their premises.

Moshin Khan, the Special Administrator for Ba Town Council, emphasized the necessity of closing businesses in Ba during the flooding to safeguard the local economy and protect business assets. His team collaborated closely with the Ba Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Fiji National Disaster Risk Management Office, local police, and the National Fire Authority to respond effectively to the crisis. By Friday afternoon, Ba Main Street was shuttered, with flooding affecting the Market Arcade as early as 7 AM.

In Tavua, health inspector Serevi Nabura indicated that the MaxVal-U supermarket was closed due to flooding, although the rest of Tavua town remained operational. He noted that flooding near the Shop N Shop supermarket was caused by river overflow. Meanwhile, Rakiraki town experienced significant disruptions, with closures resulting from creek water levels rising into the township.

In contrast, towns like Nadi and Nadroga/Navosa reported minimal impact from the weather. Muni Reddy, the chief executive officer of Nadi Town Council, stated that businesses resumed operations and began clean-up efforts following the weather-related disruptions. Similarly, Suresh Naidu, chairman of the Nadroga Navosa Chamber of Commerce and Industry, confirmed that business activities continued normally in the area.

While the situation is challenging, the resilience of local authorities and businesses highlights a collective commitment to recovery and support for those affected. The collaboration among various agencies suggests a positive path to overcoming this period of disruption, underscoring a united community focus on restoring normalcy.

Summary: Recent adverse weather has impacted businesses in Ba and Rakiraki, prompting closures due to flooding, while towns like Nadi and Nadroga/Navosa have resumed operations with cleanup efforts underway. Local authorities are working together to manage the crisis and support recovery efforts.