Residents of Vacoko are expressing their concerns over the unpleasant odor emanating from the nearby Naboro Landfill, which they say is disrupting their daily lives. Turaganikoro Lakepa Raicakacaka, aged 55, stated that the community faces this issue almost every day due to the landfill’s proximity.
“The smell from the landfill is a constant nuisance for us,” said Mr. Raicakacaka. “It becomes unbearable when the wind blows in our direction. We have no alternative but to endure this because of our location and there’s little we can do about it.”
He added that the foul odor is especially prominent during hot and rainy days. “The stench comes and goes, and it has been affecting us for many years now,” he mentioned.
Tevita Naucamalua, 73, a longtime villager and former baker at Ballantine Memorial School in Lami, compared the current situation to the unpleasant smells they faced when the Nadonumai rubbish dump was operational.
“This is the same kind of foul smell that used to come from that rubbish dump,” said Mr. Naucamalua. He also expressed concerns about the environmental impact, claiming that wastewater from the landfill is contaminating the mangroves and the river where they catch fish.
“The fish no longer taste the same as before,” he stated. “The texture has changed; the fish we catch now has very soft flesh.” Additionally, he noted that the odor has led to an influx of flies in the area, resulting in a persistent nuisance and potential health risks.
Some women from the village, who chose to remain anonymous, revealed that there are nights when they cannot sleep due to the smell. “It’s just unbearable,” said one woman. “The situation worsens during hot, windy days and when it rains. The odor is so strong that we have to close our doors and windows.”
She also remarked that the worst experiences occur at night, making it difficult for them to rest. The villagers are urging local authorities to take action to resolve this ongoing problem.
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