Some businesses in Rakiraki Town escaped massive damage from the recent flooding.

However, heavy mud and silt brought by the floodwaters into their stores and streets were a big task to clean.

When the Fiji Sun team arrived at Rakiraki yesterday, a team of officers from the National Fire Authority were clearing mud and silt from the side of the town’s market and within the town area.

Rakiraki Fuel Up Service Station supervisor Nasir Patel said despite being located near the Rakiraki bridge, they did not encounter excessive flooding.

“There was a little bit of water, but the water brought mud into the store on Saturday.

“The water was ankle-deep,” he said.

Rakiraki Town Council chief executive officer Sailosi Sawana confirmed that roads initially closed to motorists due to the flooding were now open.

“Rakiraki traffic is open, but we can see silt and mud around the town and NFA officers are assisting the council in cleaning up at the moment,” he said.

“The supermarkets are open, but not all. About 50 per cent of the shops are open and the office of the Provincial Administrator Ra is conducting emergency operations.”

PA Ra Elimi Rokoduru said so far there had been only two rescue operations, for two pregnant mothers.

“Most parts are without power with the exception of the town area,” he said.

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