Business owners in Nadi Town are grappling with a challenging situation following recent floods that have not only damaged their shops but also led to health concerns. Shopkeepers are now faced with the unpleasant task of cleaning human waste discovered in shop corridors. This situation is believed to be linked to individuals with mental health issues who often use these areas for shelter.
Bobby Janendra Vikash, who owns Mega Paper Supplies, has voiced his frustration, emphasizing that it falls to the shop owners to clean the mess as opposed to the Nadi Town Council. “It is not the council that cleans these feces; it is us, the shop owners, who are cleaning them,” Vikash stated, highlighting the unbearable smell and the extensive cleaning required after the floodwaters subsided.
Acknowledging the issue, the council’s Special Administrator Saliceni Raiwalui noted that the problem has existed for some time and requires a collective effort among various stakeholders. He pointed out that while some individuals with mental health challenges have been taken to facilities like Saint Giles Hospital, many return to the streets, perpetuating the problem. Raiwalui suggested that stricter measures might be necessary, including potential penalties for those who contribute to the littering and public hygiene issues.
Moreover, Vikash, who serves as both a business owner and an advisory councillor, indicated that the flooding in rural areas is often exacerbated by blocked drains, primarily due to littering. He proposed that appointing littering officers by the Ministry of Health and Environment could help address the ongoing littering challenges.
This situation, while distressing for shopkeepers, highlights the interconnectedness of community responsibility, mental health issues, and environmental stewardship. It serves as a reminder for collective action, emphasizing the need for a cooperative approach to maintain clean and safe public spaces. By working together—business owners, local councils, and health authorities—Nadi Town can overcome these challenges and create a healthier environment for everyone.
In summary, the recent floods in Nadi Town have uncovered significant public health and environmental issues, with shopkeepers calling for more substantial support and collaboration to manage littering and care for individuals with mental health challenges.
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