Boca residents demand swift action on flooding

Residents of Boca, Bulileka in Labasa, are raising alarm over recurring flash floods caused by poor drainage in their area.

Jai Karan, a 57-year-old resident, claims the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) is responsible for cleaning the drains but has failed to act de­spite numerous requests over the past 25 years.

"Blocked drains have caused flash floods for decades. We once again urge the FRA to address this issue and help prevent flooding, which af­fects all our residents," Mr Karan said.

Flooding frequently disrupts the Boca Loop Circular Road, forc­ing motorists to take risks during heavy rains to reach their workplaces or Labasa Town.

Bulileka, a suburban community just a few kilometres from Labasa, faces not only the inconvenience of flooding but also health risks.

Divisional Health Inspector North­ern, Vakaruru Cavuilati, has urged residents to avoid dumping house­hold waste into drains and creeks, which exacerbates blockages and increases flooding risks.

"Flooded areas heighten the risk of leptospirosis, typhoid, dengue, and diarrhoea (LTDD)," Mr Cavui­lati warned.

The residents of Boca continue to appeal for immediate action to al­leviate flooding concerns and pro­tect the community from further inconvenience and potential health crises.

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