Nakasa villagers call for cyclone‑resilient evacuation hall

Living near the coastline has created fear for residents of Nakasa Village in Wailevu East, Cakaudrove, due to the constant threat of tropical cyclones and natural disasters.

While the effects of Tropical Cyclone Vaianu were centred on the Western Division and posed no direct impact on the rural Northern Division community, a plea has been made for the construction of a proper evacuation hall.

Turaga ni Yavusa Vadrani, Semesa Tubese, said Nakasa Village lacks an effective, cyclone‑resilient evacuation centre.

He said that during tropical cyclones or severe weather disturbances, villagers are often forced to flee to the main road to avoid direct strong winds from the coast and seek shelter from destructive weather conditions.

Mr Tubese said strong winds are capable of destroying partially built and furnished homes, and only a cyclone‑resilient evacuation hall would be able to withstand such conditions.

He said previous cyclone experiences had resulted in damage to vegetation, homes and the village’s temporary evacuation hall.

Mr Tubese said the temporary hall lacks a ceiling, while its doors and windows are makeshift and vulnerable to strong winds, highlighting the need for a proper upgrade.

He recalled an incident last year during a tropical disturbance when villagers had to seek shelter at a roadside bus stop.

“We urge the Government to take our plea seriously and assist us in constructing a cyclone‑proof evacuation hall,” Mr Tubese said.

Minister for Rural, Maritime and Disaster Management Mosese Bulitavu said he understands the struggles communities face during natural disasters.

He said adequate assistance would be provided to disaster‑prone or disaster‑affected areas to help address these challenges.

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