The Fiji Roads Authority is urging the Labasa Town Council to develop and implement a comprehensive "Drainage Plan" that not only addresses existing issues but also incorporates monitoring and regulation of new building developments within the town.
This comes as the Town Council raised concerns about drainage issues causing flooding following heavy rain due to Tropical Cyclone Rae.
While responding to questions by fijivillage News, FRA says they have continuously taken efforts to assist in the clearing of drains in various locations, including a significant initiative around Labasa Hospital and its surrounding areas.
They say despite these steps, Labasa Town continues to grapple with severe challenges during heavy rainfall, particularly during high tides, which often result in flooding.
FRA says this is primarily due to blocked easements and drainage outlets leading to the river.
They say to effectively address these drainage concerns, a collaborative approach is essential, engaging multiple stakeholders.
The Authority also says that additionally, they are facing ongoing challenges related to litter disposal, which can obstruct drains and impede the flow of water to catch pits and easements – lack of enforcement on litter disposal poses significant challenges in this regard.
FRA adds without a strategic framework to address these issues, the persistent drainage problems are likely to worsen, resulting in ongoing challenges for the community.
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