Termite Crisis: 775 Households Assisted as Infestations Surge!

Since the establishment of the Termite Taskforce, a total of 775 households have benefited from the Termite Subsidy Programme, which has a financial value of $3.8 million. This information was shared by Sashi Kiran, the Assistant Minister of Women, Children, and Social Protection, during the launch of the Sugar Cane Growers Council termite package yesterday.

Kiran revealed that this initiative has led to the approval of 448 applications in the previous fiscal year and 327 applications in the current fiscal year. All applications were processed through the Lautoka City Council and validated by the Biosecurity Authority.

Furthermore, the Termite Baiting Program has enabled 1,000 households to access baiting systems aimed at eradicating existing termite colonies. Kiran highlighted that the Western Division has been the most affected region, with reports of termite infestations increasing significantly – from 972 notifications in 2021 to 1,982 by 2024, primarily due to escalating issues in the Nadi area and informal settlements in Lautoka.

Reports of infestations have also risen in Ba and Rakiraki, and since 2018, total reports to biosecurity have reached 7,000. In the Northern Division, notifications increased from 233 in 2021 to 375 in 2024, with Labasa being the primary area of concern. The Central Division, initially free of reports in 2021 and 2022, also began to see activity in 2023 with 33 notifications, which climbed to 109 in 2024.

This ongoing effort highlights the commitment to addressing the increase in termite infestations across various regions, ensuring that affected households receive the necessary assistance. The proactive measures taken by the Termite Taskforce reflect a collective approach to protect homes and communities from these destructive pests.

Summary: The article discusses the Termite Taskforce’s assistance to 775 households through a subsidized program, highlighting significant increases in termite infestation notifications across various divisions, particularly in the Western Division. The endeavor seeks to mitigate these pests’ impact, showcasing a comprehensive strategy for community protection and support.