Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya has identified a significant issue facing the Nadi Town Council: the absence of a proper garbage dump site. His remarks came during a parliamentary debate on the Review Report of Nadi Town Council for the Year 2016.
Koya pointed out that most towns and municipalities in Fiji have designated areas for refuse collection, but Nadi Town lacks such a facility. He noted that the situation has persisted for several years, although the report indicates efforts are being made to locate a suitable site for a dump.
He expressed concern over environmental impacts and the potential for discussing recycling initiatives, emphasizing that waste management has been an unresolved issue for every government since the 1970s. Koya also mentioned that the council fails to collect garbage from nearby villages, which often ends up in the river, a situation unacceptable for any urban area.
Despite these challenges, he acknowledged the town’s impressive 92 percent rate collection in 2016. Koya highlighted Nadi’s growth and development, particularly in the area from the airport to Denarau, and emphasized the need to address the visible disparities in infrastructure between different parts of the town.
He called on the Ministry of Finance and the Fiji Roads Authority to take a closer look at improving services in Nadi, especially as it serves as a primary entry point for tourists arriving in Fiji. Koya also stressed the need to solve sewerage issues within the growing municipality, where many businesses and tourist accommodations are located.
Additionally, he pointed out the necessity for regular audits and performance evaluations within the Nadi Town Council to ensure these concerns are prioritized. He urged the Ministry of Local Government to reevaluate its approach to Nadi, emphasizing its importance as a key tourism hub in the region.