Residents of Naqiliso in Davuilevu are raising concerns regarding flooding in their area after being told they may have to pay for drainage works they claim is not their responsibility.
The issue surfaced following a meeting with Josateki Koroi, a correctional officer, regarding planned road and drainage works in the area.
According to the community president, Jag Prasad, residents were informed that another meeting would be held before road works commence.
He says after visiting the site, he observed that soil had allegedly been placed into a drain, causing blockage and water flow issues.
He adds that the drain reportedly leads directly into the river, raising concerns about flooding and environmental impact.
Prasad says he approached the contractor to seek clarification.
He claims the contractor indicated that a digger could be brought in to clear the drain, but the community would need to cover the cost.
No specific amount was provided for the use of the digger.
Residents maintain that they were not responsible for burying or blocking the drain and believe it is unfair for them to be asked to pay for its clearance.
Prasad, who has been living in the community for eight years, also claims that no one was authorised to deposit soil into the drain.
While acknowledging that the land does not belong to the community, the president says those responsible for the blockage should be held accountable.
67-year-old Narayan Sami says the problem began after contractors working on development for the Fiji Corrections Service cemetery allegedly covered an existing drain.
Sami, who has been living in the area for 25 years, claims there was a proper drainage system in place before the works began, but soil was placed over the drain without installing a culvert to allow water to flow through to the river.
Insert: no school 14th Feb 26
According to Sami, about 600 people live in the community, including school children who are now unable to attend classes because they cannot cross the flooded area.
He says water levels continue to rise daily, and vehicles may soon be unable to pass.
Sami claims the community held several meetings with Fiji Corrections officials, and they were advised to wait two to three weeks before further action would be taken.
However, he says the situation has worsened, and residents are now suffering due to stagnant and smelly water.
He adds that contractors allegedly told the community they would need to pay for a digger if they want the drain cleared, though no specific cost was given.
The community maintains that they were not responsible for blocking the drain and believe it is unfair for them to bear the cost of clearing it.
Sami says a government minister visited the site yesterday morning and witnessed the flooding.
The community is now appealing to the Government and relevant authorities to intervene immediately, either by restoring proper drainage or relocating residents if the area is no longer safe.
They stress that residents are willing to cooperate but want a fair solution, saying they simply want safe living conditions for their families and children.
We have sent questions to the Fiji Corrections Service.
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