Business owners in Nadi Town are grappling with the aftermath of recent floods, which left their shops not only damaged but also contaminated with human waste. The floodwaters brought to light a disturbing issue, with shopkeepers discovering feces in their corridors, particularly from individuals experiencing mental health challenges who often take refuge in these areas overnight.
Bobby Janendra Vikash, owner of Mega Paper Supplies, has voiced his frustration about the lack of support from the Nadi Town Council. He expressed his dismay that it falls upon shop owners to clean up the mess left behind after floodwaters receded. “It’s not the council that cleans these feces; it’s us, the shop owners, who are left to deal with this situation,” he lamented.
The situation has been compounded by a persistent odor from the waste, causing discomfort for shopkeepers and the community. Acknowledging the issue, Saliceni Raiwalui, the council’s Special Administrator, highlighted that the problem requires a collaborative effort among various stakeholders. He pointed out that while measures have been taken to address the presence of street dwellers, those with mental health issues often return to the streets, complicating cleanup efforts.
Mr. Raiwalui suggested that more stringent measures might be necessary, advocating for consequences for individuals engaging in such behavior. He emphasized the importance of environmental responsibility and compared the actions of those who litter to those who disregard public decency.
Additionally, Mr. Vikash noted that flooding in rural areas is frequently caused by blocked drains, which are often obstructed by litter. He proposed that the Ministry of Health and Environment consider appointing littering officers to monitor and penalize careless littering, which contributes to drainage issues and subsequent flooding.
This scenario underscores the need for integrated community efforts to address both mental health support and environmental cleanliness. By fostering cooperation among local authorities, health organizations, and the community, Nadi Town can work towards creating a cleaner, healthier environment that supports all of its residents.
In summary, while the current situation reflects significant challenges, there is hope that proposed measures and community cooperation can lead to lasting improvements in both public health and environmental conditions in Nadi Town.
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