Nabua residents battle ongoing illegal dumping

Residents of the Nabua Muslim League community in Suva say they are fighting a daily battle against rubbish as illegal dumping from neighbouring areas continues to flood their homes, yards and streets.

The problem, which residents say has persisted for years, worsens during heavy rain when debris from Bay View Heights in Nabua washes into nearby waterways, leaving the community to clean up the mess.

Resident Abdul Imrozm described the situation as frustrating.

“Sometimes the rubbish comes inside the house or into our yards. Children are sent to wade through the water and sort the waste,” he said.

Mr Imrozm also claimed that people throw tree branches and fruit, including mangoes, guavas and lemons, into the water. He said the issue had been reported many times, “but nothing changes”.

Litia Malumunika, 34, who has lived in the area for almost eight years, said the build-up of waste was worrying.

“It affects our daily life, the children and even the environment around us. Something needs to be done,” she said.

Setareki Tui, 45, shared similar concerns.

“Even after clean-ups, the rubbish keeps coming back. It’s not just untidy; it’s a health and safety risk. Residents cannot keep living like this,” he said.

Minister for Environment and Climate Change Lynda Tabuya acknowledged the area was a known hotspot for illegal dumping.

“This challenge is not only about cleaning up; it’s about fixing systems and behaviours. We need better waste disposal infrastructure and stronger awareness among residents,” she said.

Ms Tabuya said much of the rubbish came from outside the area and was often dumped at night.

“We are tightening surveillance in partnership with the Fiji Police, reviewing litter laws with heavier penalties, and engaging community leaders and residents to protect their environment,” she said.

Several clean-up campaigns, including efforts by civil servants, have already been carried out. However, Ms Tabuya said long-term change required civic responsibility.

“We have launched a civic education campaign, starting on social media and soon in schools, to empower the next generation to become champions of a cleaner Fiji,” she said.

Residents are urging the Government to strengthen enforcement, increase community vigilance and improve public education to stop illegal dumping from disrupting their lives.

Feedback: rariqi.turner@fijisun.com.fj