Nadi Town Council’s special administrator, Prem Singh, is optimistic that Shashi Kiran, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, will take prompt action regarding the increasing number of street dwellers in Nadi. Singh has urged for a collaborative approach, highlighting the need for intervention from government ministries, social welfare services, and religious organizations to effectively address the escalating issue of homelessness and loitering.

During a recent meeting with the Nadi Chamber of Commerce, Singh emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring and involving various government agencies in addressing this complex social concern. He articulated that to mitigate the problem of street begging, there needs to be a coordinated effort that encompasses support from bodies dealing with land, education, and the iTaukei community.

Minister Kiran resonated with Singh’s sentiments, stressing the significance of collaboration among local organizations, including churches and non-governmental entities. She pointed out that her office faces intricate cases, often involving drug-related issues and family violence, which complicate the support process for those living on the streets. Kiran shared a poignant example of intervening in a situation where a man was exploiting a partially blind child for begging, illustrating the urgent need for protective measures for vulnerable individuals.

Concerns about pedestrians being affected by street dwellers have been voiced by local business owners, such as Ashfaaq Khan and Marc McElrath, who advocate for an integrated response from authorities to maintain a clean and safe community for both residents and customers.

Ultimately, this situation in Nadi reflects a collective commitment to addressing homelessness while ensuring the well-being of local businesses. The ongoing dialogues between local stakeholders emphasize the hope for meaningful interventions that can restore dignity to those affected by social inequities, fostering a community characterized by compassion and shared responsibility.

In summary, Nadi stands on the precipice of potential positive change with the collaborative efforts between local authorities, businesses, and social services, aiming to cultivate a supportive environment that addresses the needs of both vulnerable populations and the community at large.