Business owners in Nadi are expressing their frustration over the increasing presence of street dwellers and beggars who are obstructing their shops and causing disturbances. Ashfaaq Khan, managing director of AL-Hamd Smart Living, reported that his staff regularly cleans up after these individuals, who leave behind waste at the store’s entrance.
Khan emphasized the need for a more permanent solution and called on the Nadi Town Council (NTC) to take action. He suggested organizing a meeting with police, the Ministry of Social Welfare, the Ministry of Health, and relevant NGOs to discuss a collaborative approach to address the issue. He pointed out that the number of street dwellers has been rising, and the situation raises concerns for the safety of both staff and customers.
Similarly, Marc McElrath, director of Vuvale Restaurants, insisted that the government and social welfare agencies must recognize the challenges faced by these individuals and provide the necessary support. He recommended that the NTC assist in connecting these people with professional care, such as that offered at St. Giles Hospital.
Businessman Jerry Gounder acknowledged the limitations of the council in dealing with the situation, noting they have similar challenges within their own council complex and often refer such issues to the police. The responsibility, he asserted, ultimately falls under social welfare.
Salicieli Raiwalui, chairperson of the NTC special administrator, agreed that the topic needs attention. However, inquiries made to the Assistant Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Sashi Kiran, have not received a response.
This situation underscores the need for effective collaboration between businesses, local authorities, and social services to find sustainable solutions for both those in need and the community at large. A hopeful outlook lies in the potential for these discussions to lead to better care and support systems that can improve the lives of street dwellers while fostering a welcoming environment for businesses and their customers.
In summary, Nadi business owners are calling for joint efforts from various agencies to tackle the growing issue of street dwellers and beggars disrupting their operations. They are advocating for solutions that not only address the concerns of business viability but also ensure that those in need receive appropriate assistance.
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