Nadi Town Council’s special administrator, Prem Singh, has expressed hope that Shashi Kiran, the Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection, will urgently address the increasing number of street dwellers in the area. Singh emphasized the need for collaborative efforts involving government ministries, social welfare services, and religious organizations to effectively combat homelessness and reduce loitering in the community.

During a recent meeting with the Nadi Chamber of Commerce, both Singh and Kiran discussed the complexities faced by the local social welfare office, which deals with some of the most difficult cases in the region. They also highlighted the pressing issues surrounding drug-related incidents and family violence that complicate support for those affected by homelessness.

Kiran acknowledged that many organizations, including churches and non-governmental entities, are working together to find viable solutions. She shared a poignant example of a man who was exploiting a partially blind child for begging, underscoring the urgent need for protective measures for vulnerable individuals and emphasizing that children should not be subjected to begging.

Local business owners have voiced their concerns regarding the disturbances caused by street dwellers, pleading for a unified approach from authorities to ensure both community safety and support for the marginalized. Figures like Ashfaaq Khan and Marc McElrath have been vocal about seeking coordinated responses from various agencies to enhance the urban environment for both local businesses and vulnerable populations.

This concerted community effort reflects a positive outlook for Nadi. Through ongoing dialogue and collaboration, there is hope for meaningful interventions that address the complex social issues surrounding homelessness, ultimately contributing to a more secure and compassionate community for all residents. The commitment displayed by local stakeholders suggests that as they work together, they can foster an environment that supports both the vulnerable and local enterprises, leading to an improved quality of life in Nadi.