Relocate Vunato dump: Lautoka residents demand urgent action

The three-day fire at the Vunato rubbish dump in Lautoka has prompted renewed calls for urgent government intervention.

Residents are now demanding action to address the recurring blaze emitting pollution, health risk and the dump’s proposed relocation.

Lautoka Residents and Ratepayers Association president Narayan Reddy said thick smoke had affected residents, nearby villages and businesses since the fire started on Sunday.

Communities including Matawalu, Tovu and Natabua are among those affected, while smoke has reduced visibility along Marine Drive, Sukunaivalu Road and Vomo Street.

Mr Reddy said the smoke had also affected nearby hotels, including Bekana Island Resort and Tanoa Waterfront Hotel.

He said the fire was part of a recurring problem that had continued for almost a decade, with dump fires often following annual clean-up campaigns.

Despite previous efforts by the Lautoka City Council to improve fire prevention through lookout points, water tanks, pumps and cameras, Mr Reddy said the latest fire had escalated quickly.

He said a delay of about two hours in reporting the fire had contributed to the situation.

The National Fire Authority was assisting with firefighting efforts, but Mr Reddy warned that underground fires could continue smouldering and produce smoke for four to eight weeks, even after flames were brought under control.

Calls for relocation

Mr Reddy said the council and Government should revisit an offer of 46 acres of land for a possible relocation of the rubbish dump and begin discussions as soon as possible.

The Department of Environment has also been summoned to inspect the site and determine what action is needed.

Mr Reddy said allegations of deliberate arson had also surfaced.

However, the cause of the latest fire remains unclear.

“The smoke poses particular risks to vulnerable residents, including elderly people and those with asthma,” he said.

“Non-governmental organisations should distribute face masks and provide support to people living near affected areas.”

He also urged motorists to exercise caution when travelling through smoke-affected areas, particularly along Sukunaivalu Road and Vomo Street.