A family in Sawani has lost their home and possessions due to a landslide triggered by heavy rainfall and flooding. Homeowner Ranjeev Prasad recounted that the landslide struck early yesterday morning at around 5 am. In a desperate attempt to escape the collapsing house, Prasad and his family left behind all of their personal belongings.
Mr. Prasad, who has lived in the house for over 37 years, expressed that this was the first time they had experienced such a disaster. “We heard some cracking sounds and when I looked out the window, we saw the mud coming down,” he explained. He lamented, “My clothes and our belongings are all inside the house; we must start from scratch again.” For now, the family plans to stay with neighbors while they assess their next steps. He also noted that it could take months to clear the debris from their home.
The landslide has also impacted local businesses. Deepak Vishal Narayan, owner of Narayan Motors Service Station Ltd, stated that his business suffered significant damage as water and mud ruined refrigerators and food items. He mentioned the service station would remain closed until safety inspections and cleanup efforts were completed, affecting many residents in the area.
The Fiji Meteorological Service has warned that cloud and rain are expected to continue affecting the Central, Eastern, and Northern divisions of the country today. In response to the situation, the National Disaster Management Office has urged residents in vulnerable areas of Vatuwaqa and Wailoku in Suva to relocate to nearby evacuation centers. The designated centers include St Marcellin Primary School, Marist Champagnat Institute, and Marata Hall in Wailoku.
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