Government officials and the Rakiraki Town Council are making significant efforts to address flooding issues in Rakiraki. A survey conducted in 2022 revealed that the town experienced financial losses ranging from $200,000 to $300,000 due to the damage caused by 27 flooding events.
Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa shared with Parliament that flooding in Rakiraki has been a recurring challenge, largely due to the area’s geographical features and weather patterns. Key locations impacted by flooding include Naqoro Flat and the backroad of the Nakauvadra Range.
Rakiraki is particularly susceptible to flash floods during intense rainfall, especially in the wet season and during cyclones. Minister Nalumisa noted that there have been 27 recorded floods since 2018, with an average of four floods expected each year, which he described as a significant concern.
Flooding often disrupts the town’s operations, causing road closures and requiring two to three days for clean-up efforts to restore normalcy. The financial impact on local businesses from the 2022 survey was highlighted as a considerable setback for the small town.
Additionally, Mr. Nalumisa pointed out that the aftermath of flooding has led to increased cases of diseases like leptospirosis, typhoid, and dengue fever, which arise from contaminated water and poor sanitation conditions, along with a surge in mosquito populations.
In response to these challenges, the Rakiraki Town Council has established a Disaster Management Policy, designed to activate during the flood risk period from November to April, aimed at better preparing the community for such emergencies.