Nausori Council Faces Urgent Need for Disaster Strategy: What’s Next?

The Nausori Town Council is facing significant vulnerabilities due to the absence of a disaster risk management plan, a situation recently highlighted by the Standing Committee on Public Accounts during the assessment of the Council’s Annual Report for 2016-2018. Assistant Minister Naisa Tuinaceva, a member of the committee, stressed that effective disaster planning is essential under the newly instituted National Disaster Risk Management Act 2024.

According to Tuinaceva, the urgency for establishing concrete emergency response strategies cannot be overstated. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between government entities and community stakeholders to develop robust plans that protect the community. The committee has urged the Council to finalize its disaster risk management strategy and implement a business continuity plan to ensure that municipal services remain operable during emergencies.

This concern mirrors broader issues identified in earlier evaluations, wherein the Nausori Town Council was criticized for delays in critical development projects and its struggles with urban growth and crime. The report from the Standing Committee on Social Affairs raised alarms about the inadequate management of urban challenges, necessitating an immediate review of the Council’s operations to ensure effective service delivery and public safety.

Despite these challenges, there is hope for improvement. Engaging local communities and fostering collaborative efforts can lead to innovative solutions for enhancing living conditions in Nausori. This perspective reflects a belief that through strategic governance and resource management, the community can work towards a revitalized and resilient future, effectively addressing the pressing issues that have emerged.

The Council’s proactive steps to address these vulnerabilities could pave the way for more secure and prepared municipal infrastructure, ultimately benefiting all residents as they tackle the challenges posed by natural disasters and urban demands.