Business owners in Nadi Town are grappling with a troubling situation following recent floods that have not only damaged their shops but also left them with an unpleasant cleanup task. The floodwaters exposed human waste on shop corridors, believed to be from individuals facing mental health challenges who often use these spaces for shelter.
Bobby Janendra Vikash, owner of Mega Paper Supplies and a local councillor, has voiced his frustration over this persistent issue. He highlighted that shopkeepers are left to handle the cleanup themselves, as the local council does not address the situation adequately. Following the floods, Vikash was confronted with an unbearable smell wafting from the waste, prompting him to clear both his shop area and the street in front.
Saliceni Raiwalui, the Special Administrator for the Nadi Council, acknowledged the need for a collective effort to resolve this long-standing problem. He noted that although some individuals have been taken to care facilities, they often return to the streets. Raiwalui suggested that stronger enforcement measures may be necessary to curb such incidents, drawing parallels between the actions of litterers and those neglecting public hygiene.
Vikash pointed out that recurring floods in rural areas are frequently caused by blocked drains, primarily due to littering. He recommended that the Ministry of Health and Environment consider appointing littering officers to monitor the situation and take action against offenders.
This situation highlights the need for immediate attention to public health and sanitation issues in Nadi Town, alongside stronger community engagement strategies to foster awareness and responsibility among residents.
Through collective action and responsible community behavior, there is hope for a cleaner and safer environment in Nadi Town moving forward. The involvement of multiple stakeholders may pave the way for sustainable solutions that benefit both business owners and the wider community.
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