Waves reach homes in Navutu as residents call for stronger seawall

Waves have twice reached a family home at Navutu seaside in Lautoka, heightening residents’ concerns about coastal erosion and strengthening calls for Government assistance to build a stronger seawall.

Methodist Church steward (Nai Vakatawa) Solomoni Nacua, who has been serving at Navutu Settlement for the past six months, said waves had broken against and splashed the back of his house on two occasions.

Mr Nacua, who is originally from Sabeto Village, said the incidents had worried his family.

“It worries me because this is my six months here and this is my first experience,” Mr Nacua said.

“It has happened to our house twice. My family was a bit scared when we were informed about what had happened, although we were told that we did not have to worry.”

Mr Nacua said the incidents highlighted the need for communities to respond to the effects of climate change.

“I think, as the headman said, we need to act on these climate change effects that are happening around us,” he said.

He said the Methodist Church had been raising awareness about coastal protection and encouraging community leaders to support measures such as seawall construction and the planting of mangroves and other vegetation along vulnerable coastal and riverbank areas.

Seawall priority

Navutu Community head Kamenieli Bainitabua said residents had completed two major projects — an internal village road and a community hall — and were now prioritising a stronger seawall.

“The last government came here and promised that they would help us build a seawall that would be a bit higher and about 30 metres away from the edge of the village,” Mr Bainitabua said.

“But as the government changed, that promise has not been fulfilled. So, we are trying to fundraise for this project and also call for support from the Government to build the seawall.”

Mr Bainitabua said the community had submitted a proposal to the Coalition Government and was hoping to secure assistance.

He said another settlement in Navutu had also been affected, with seawater taking up a significant portion of available land.

Heavy rain and cyclones also remained a concern for families in the area.

During emergencies, residents travel to nearby evacuation centres around Lautoka City.

The latest incidents have added urgency to the community’s push for stronger coastal protection before more homes and land are affected.

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