Residents of Lakena Irrigation Road say they cannot understand why couples go there for their dates because it is littered with rubbish on both sides of the road.

The road, dubbed ‘Lovers Lane’ was the scene of Police investigation after a man was arrested for allegedly raping a 12-year-old school student.

The suspect is in Police custody.

Residents are scratching their heads to understand why couples go to ‘Lovers Lane’.

Apart from the rubbish, there are no lights, footpaths or bus service. There is thick bush on either side.

Its discreet location and isolation may be the attraction for these couples.

Residents have to get off the bus on the main road in Manoca and walk home.

Suresh Nand, 53, who has been living at Lakena Irrigation Road all his life, said the environment was unhealthy but they still saw lovers come and park their cars on the stretch of the road, totally oblivious to the rubbish.

“We live near the big rubbish piles and we have seen so many vehicles come in throughout the week and throw rubbish on the  piles already there,” Mr Nand said.

“We have also been witnessing couples park their cars there for hours.

“In the area, the houses are far apart with big trees and bushes on either sides of the road filled with piles of rubbish.

“This leaves a foul smell in the area.

“Many of us residents have tried to burn the rubbish so that the area could be a bit clean and does not smell but later in the day or the week, more rubbish is dumped.”

He said despite repeated requests to the authorities to clear the rubbish, it appeared there was a blame game going on.

The Nausori Town Council said ‘Lover’s Lane’ was outside its town boundary and that the Health Department through the Rural Local Authority was responsible for clearing rubbish from the area.

Rajeshwar Chand, 48, said the people who dumped rubbish there, were not residents but people from outside the area.

“Many of the residents living in the area usually burn their rubbish,” said Mr Chand.

“Many times we have seen people come and throw rubbish which even includes mattresses, wooden items and chicken feathers.

“We request the relevant authorities to come and help us clean the area because we have tried to burn the rubbish and clean it, but people keep throwing rubbish there.”

Edited by Nemani Delaibatiki

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