Residents Weary of Flies Infestation

Residents of Soisoi in Labasa are battling with an infestation of flies’ in their homes.

Despite a Government team’s pest control exercise, flies gathering in thousands are affecting households in the settlement.

Soisoi advisory councillor Jitendra Kumar said after he received complaints from residents about some foul smell, flies and noise coming from a nearby poultry farm, he had sought help from the Macuata Provincial Council office.

“The office then informed the divisional health inspector and his team to carry out inspections,” Mr Kumar said.

“The people are claiming that they find it embarrassing and discomfort to invite guests over their homes for funerals, weddings and religious gatherings because flies make it unbearable to sit and have meals.”

He said so far this was the only settlement located outside of Labasa Town experiencing the infestation for two years.

Health response

Ministry of Health and Medical Services sub divisional health inspector Macuata Josaia Raikoso said they were aware of the issue and scheduled a meeting with residents, the owner of the poultry farm and relevant Government bodies.

“This ongoing issue was addressed before and since it is being raised again, we will look into it,” Mr Raikoso said.

One of the residents writing letters to relevant authorities was Ajesh Chand.

“On behalf of the residents, I have been saying it before and now, that we want to live a peaceful and healthy life,” Mr Chand said.

“It is not easy to walk or work around the house or compound with flies moving around causing irritation.”

When Fiji Sun approached the owner of the poultry farm for interview, he refused saying he had a valid business licence issued by relevant government authorities to operate.

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