Labasa parents shop early as cyclone season threatens travel

Retailers in Labasa have reported an increase in early shoppers, particularly from rural areas, as families take precautions against potential weather disruptions.

For parents like Birmala Chandra, early preparation is not just about convenience, it is about ensuring their children’s education continues smoothly, regardless of the season.

As the cyclone season begins, she started shopping early to avoid travel disruptions and to make sure her child is ready for school.

Ms Chandra, from Tuvulomo in Dama, Bua, was shopping with her daughter, Shyna Chandra, purchasing school essentials well before the new term.

She said living far from town influenced her decision to shop early. The journey to Labasa takes nearly an hour, and during heavy rain and flooding, travel can become difficult or even impossible.

“Sometimes when there are heavy downpours, we cannot travel to town at all,” Ms Chandra said.

Despite the challenges of distance and weather, education remains her top priority. She explained that having everything ready ahead of time reduces stress for both parents and children.

“I always worry about my child’s education. Making sure my daughter has all her school items before the term starts is very important to me,” she said.

Shyna shared her excitement about returning to school and said she wanted to be organized from day one.

“I want to go to school prepared and ready to learn,” she said.