More families, who were hit hard by Tropical Cyclone Yasa in the North, are acting without Government assistance in rebuilding their homes.

In Korovatu, Labasa, Paulus Naidu’s house was heavily damaged at the height of the cyclone.

He spent Christmas Day picking up and nailing the pieces back together with his family.

The unemployed 46-year-old said: “On Thursday night around 10.30pm the roof was blown away following the kitchen.

I took shelter at my neighbour’s home.”

He aims to complete rebuilding before New Year.

Damage to house caused by Cyclone Yasa.

“Things are very hard since no one is working from the family and even I am sick”, Naidu said.

“I plan to build my house before my leg surgery next year.

“I am using the old materials and bought a few of them.”

He said Government assistance may take a while as assessments are still being done and it was up to individuals to be proactive.

“My elder son has completed Form 7 and my daughter is in primary school,” he said.

“I am thankful that no one is injured in my family.”

In Vunivau in Labasa, Rohini Lata, said they will use their savings to rebuild.

The category five cyclone blew off their roof while they hid under the bed.

The 46-year-old, who is a saleswoman at Lals Motors Ltd, said this was the darkest Christmas ever.

“We will cover the roof to maintain the house. Other damages can be done from the assistance,” Ms Lata said.

“Nothing went according to my plans but for sure with God’s grace, things will be back to normal.

“I thought to visit my families and celebrate this festive season with them instead I have to stay home and look after my belongings.”

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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