Be warned: Termite swarming season underway

Residents in Labasa and Savusavu are being urged to stay vigilant as the Asian Subterranean Termite (AST) swarming season begins, threatening homes, businesses, and infrastructure across Vanua Levu.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, said Government is stepping up interventions to contain infestations, which he described as a long-overlooked but significant issue.

“This Government in the last two national budgets has set aside allocation as we’re also looking at creating campaigns, education and getting more baiting facilities to control termites, educate people and facilitating campaigns,” Mr Prasad said.

He stressed that well-treated timber must be used in construction to reduce the risk of rapid infestations.

“It is necessary that buildings are done properly with timber well treated and resistant to quick infestations of termite,” he said.

Mr Prasad said infestations, first identified in 2008 and 2009, have spread beyond the Western Division, Labasa, and Suva to Savusavu.

He criticised previous administrations for turning “a complete blind eye” to the issue.

Labasa Town Council special administrator and Macuata Tourism Association chairperson, Paul Jaduram, urged residents to report any signs of termites immediately to the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF).

Swarming season typically runs from September to November, with termites flying toward lights for 30 to 40 minutes each evening. Residents are advised to secure their homes and switch off lights during swarms.

In Savusavu, termite expert Richard Ruban Lal confirmed infestations have grown more aggressive since first being detected last year.

He warned untreated homes and businesses are at risk of gradual but serious damage.

Savusavu Chamber of Commerce president, Avikash Pillay, also called for a stronger BAF strategy to contain the pests, while local homeowner Kandsami Naicker said subsidised chemical treatments were needed.

“One gallon of Hovex, mixed with 200 litres of water, can protect a house for 10 to 15 years,” Mr Naicker said.

“BAF’s current method only slows the spread temporarily.”

Opposition leader Mahendra Chaudhry criticised the Government’s response, claiming homeowners in Labasa, Lautoka, and Nadi are still waiting for promised grants.

“The money provided is inadequate, and the paperwork is too complex for most homeowners,” he said.

No comment was received from BAF regarding the current infestations at the time of publication.