Business owners in Nadi Town are grappling with serious challenges in the aftermath of recent floods. Along with the damage to their shops, many have been confronted with the unsanitary task of cleaning human feces in their shop corridors, attributed to individuals with mental health issues who often use these spaces as makeshift shelters.
Bobby Janendra Vikash, owner of Mega Paper Supplies, articulated his frustrations over this unsightly problem, emphasizing that he has frequently brought this matter to the attention of the Nadi Town Council. He stated that the corridors near his shop are commonly occupied by those dealing with mental health challenges, which has exacerbated the cleanliness issue following the flood.
“The council does not clean up after these incidents; it falls on us, the shop owners, to rectify it,” Vikash lamented. He went on to describe the unbearable stench from the waste that has forced him into the unpleasant position of cleaning both his shop area and the adjacent streets.
Saliceni Raiwalui, the Special Administrator of the council, acknowledged the need for a collaborative effort to resolve this issue, noting that complaints regarding the situation are not new. He explained that while the council, along with various ministries and stakeholders, has assisted in relocating some individuals to safe accommodations, many continue to return to the streets.
Raiwalui suggested that more stringent measures may be necessary, advocating for stricter penalties for those responsible for such public disturbances. He emphasized the importance of shared responsibility in maintaining a clean environment, linking the behaviors of litterers and those with mental instability.
Additionally, Vikash highlighted the link between heavy flooding in rural areas and blocked drains caused by litter. He pointed to the continual trash disposal into drainage systems as a significant factor in these issues, proposing that the Ministry of Health and Environment should consider appointing littering officers to enforce cleaner practices.
In summary, while Nadi Town business owners face daunting post-flood challenges regarding sanitation and public health, the situation presents an opportunity for local authorities and the community to come together to address systemic issues. This proactive collaboration could lead to a cleaner, healthier environment for all residents and possibly improve conditions for vulnerable populations in the area.
Leave a comment