Minister for Waterways and Environment Dr Mahendra Reddy continued his consultations with residents in Nadroga province yesterday.

Speaking to residents of the Yako community, Minister Reddy highlighted the need to ensure waterways and drainage systems were prioritised.

This is to guarantee that the farming and residential communities are able to utilise land in a sustainable manner.

“The consultations are being held to meet the communities and know first-hand of the various drainage and waterways issues affecting our communities,” he said.

“While the waterways ministry is a new ministry, waterways issues have plagued our communities and this has had a serious impact on the nation, financially,

“Thus the reason for a proactive approach to ensure that our waterways and drainages are maintained and looked after.”

Accompanied by senior officials from the ministry, the minister heard of the various issues including salt-water inundation and soil erosion from the nearby creeks.

Minister Reddy also held consultations with villagers and residents from the communities of Nalele and Ciri in Nadroga.

Earlier this week he visited Nasau, Bilalevu, Navula, Barara, Lawai, Kulukulu, Rukurukulevu, Nabaka, Jubairata, and Tuva.