Officials from the government and the Rakiraki Town Council are intensifying their efforts to address flooding in Rakiraki. Following a 2022 survey, it was revealed that the town suffered losses ranging between $200,000 and $300,000 due to the aftermath of 27 flood events.
Minister for Local Government Maciu Nalumisa informed Parliament about the ongoing flooding issue in Rakiraki, which is largely attributed to the area’s geographical and climatic factors. Key locations affected by flooding include Naqoro Flat and the back road of the Nakauvadra Range.
Rakiraki is particularly vulnerable to flash floods during heavy rainfall, especially during the wet and cyclone seasons. “Since 2018, there have been 27 recorded floods, averaging about four floods each year. That is a significant number,” noted Mr. Nalumisa.
He added that the town often faces closures due to flooding, and it typically takes two to three days to clear the main roads and businesses. The financial impact on local businesses, as highlighted in the 2022 Rakiraki Town Council survey, represents a serious threat to the community’s economic stability.
Mr. Nalumisa also pointed out the health risks that follow flooding, including increased incidents of diseases such as leptospirosis, typhoid, and dengue fever, largely due to contaminated water, inadequate sanitation, and the rapid proliferation of mosquitoes.
To mitigate these challenges, the Rakiraki Town Council has developed a Disaster Management Policy, which typically becomes active in November and is expected to remain in effect until April.