One of the most common problems leading to localised flooding in the towns and cities is blocked drains.

According to the Water Authority of Fiji, this is a man-made problem which could be avoided.

“Water can rise quickly and unexpectedly in drains, especially if the drains are blocked. Drains can get blocked for a variety of reasons and one of the major ones is litter,” the authority said.

“Before a cyclone strikes, we urge you to dispose of your rubbish properly in the bin.”

The traditional cyclone season started in November and the Fiji Meteorological Services predicted at least one major cyclone.

Hussain Sheikh of Milverton Road in Raiwaqa said the section of the road near the mosque would become flooded during heavy rains.

“I think people need to grow up because it seems such habits are not stopping. We get to see people still throwing rubbish in the drain,” he said.

In Laucala Beach, rubbish and silt clogs up a big drain in Vere Road.

“When it rains heavily, my compound gets flooded. My garden is damaged and if there is a high tide, water goes into my home,” resident Sisilia Asenaca said.

“I know the municipal council should clean the drain, but that does not give people the right to throw rubbish in the drain.”

Suva and Lami special administrator chair Isikeli Tikoduadua said the Suva City Council cleaned drains and found that the majority were blocked because of human behaviour.

Last week, the authority cleared out a blocked drain in Nadi and found that discarded rags were the issue.

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