The Ministry of Waterways has deployed staff to ascertain ways of minimising the negative impact of flooding in the Western Division.

The ministry’s Lautoka office is being used as the operation centre.

Minister Mahendra Reddy said yesterday four engineers and three vehicles had been deployed from Suva to the Western Division. The ministry has organised five teams for five areas: Sigatoka, Nadi, Lautoka, Ba and Tavua/Rakiraki.

“Each team has been given a list of areas within their district which have been affected by flooding,” Mr Reddy said.

“They will examine the possibility of digging new drains or clearing and desilting of existing drains.

“The ministry has also invited about 13 contractors this morning and got base rates in linear metres from them.

“As soon as the ministry gets scoping from the field, the ministry will award contracts are and work can start immediately. This operation will continue until we scope all areas in the Western division and contracts given out.

“The ministry notes that this recent flooding provides them with new data on vulnerable areas which is being utilised to draw up new drainage works in the respective areas.’’

He urged the general public to ensure that drains are looked after and that no one throws rubbish or undertakes activities which compromises the flow of water.

Edited by George Kulamaiwasa

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