Farmers in Rakiraki are losing livestock and seeing their crops badly affected as the ongoing effects of El Niño and a lack of water continue to take a toll on their farming, with farmers now calling on the Government to assist with boreholes.
Speaking to fijiVillage News, Narara Rakiraki Advisory Councillor Anay Kumar says the river they depend on for water is also drying up, leaving his livestock without enough water.
He says losing three cattle and several goats is a major concern, as the water shortage continues to affect his livestock.
Kumar says the water shortage is also affecting sugarcane and other crops, while labourers are no longer willing to work in the area due to the lack of water.
He says reduced production will have an impact on their crops and sugarcane next year, as the situation continues to worsen.
Kumar says the community has faced water shortages for about 49 years, as many families in the area rely on raw water sources.
Insert:Kumar on no action taken 22nd Sept (HINDI).
He says residents have applied for a borehole and are appealing to the Government to assist the many families affected by the ongoing water shortage.
