Flood damage hits Labasa vegetable farmers

Farmers in flood-prone areas of Labasa say recent flooding has damaged vegetation and disrupted supply to local markets.

Subhash Tulsi, a large-scale maize farmer, said floodwaters had affected his crops and supply to the Labasa market.

Mr Tulsi said poor drainage contributed to the losses but remained confident he would recover.

He said while the floods would impact the quality of maize produced, he believed the remaining stock would still be suitable for the local market.

In Korotari, a few kilometres from Labasa Town and widely known as the “salad bowl” of Labasa, farmers are also feeling the strain of persistent rain and flooding.

Farmer Shreymen Chand said vegetable farming runs deep in his family, dating back to his grandparents.

“The wet weather affects our crops,” he said.

He added that flooding of farms remains a major issue in the area, and farmers must remain cautious and construct proper drains to reduce the risk of damage.

Another vegetable farmer, Gaya Chand, shared similar concerns, saying flooding had significantly impacted vegetable farms.

Mr Chand said improved drainage systems were needed to prevent floodwaters from destroying crops.

He said heavy rainfall could not be prevented, but proper drainage could help reduce the extent of damage.

"We need to prepare well for floods and cyclones so that we can safeguard our vegetable stock," he emphasised.

The soft-spoken farmer said vegetable farming remained profitable, but stronger cyclone and flood prevention measures were necessary.

Mr Chand urged fellow farmers not to lose hope and to persevere in the vegetable farming business.