Government officials and executives from the Rakiraki Town Council are intensifying efforts to prevent flooding in the area. Following a survey conducted in 2022, Rakiraki Town reported financial losses ranging from $200,000 to $300,000 due to the aftermath of 27 flooding incidents.
Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa addressed Parliament, highlighting the ongoing challenges flooding poses to Rakiraki, which are largely attributed to the town’s geographical features and weather patterns. Key areas like Naqoro Flat and the Nakauvadra Range backroad have been significantly impacted.
Rakiraki is particularly vulnerable to flash floods during heavy rainfall, especially in the wet season and during cyclones. “Since 2018, we have documented 27 floods, averaging four floods annually in Rakiraki. This is a considerable figure,” stated Mr. Nalumisa. He noted that the floods often disrupt the town, with main roads and businesses requiring two to three days for cleanup.
The council’s 2022 survey revealed that local businesses faced losses of about $200,000 to $300,000, which poses a significant challenge for a small community. Mr. Nalumisa also pointed out that the consequences of flooding lead to an uptick in diseases such as leptospirosis, typhoid, and dengue fever, primarily due to contaminated water, unsanitary conditions, and a surge in disease-carrying mosquitoes.
In response to these challenges, the Rakiraki Town Council has developed a Disaster Management Policy, which includes the implementation of a Disaster Management Operation. This operation is expected to be initiated in November and concluded by the following April.