Schools, vendors left in the dark over drug burn
"If there are concerns during school hours, teachers and students should take appropriate action," he said, adding that further discussions with the Fiji Police Force were needed.
Friday 28 February 2025 | 08:09
Black smoke billows from the crematorium in Davuilevu as the Fiji Police Force team continues to destroy methamphetamine on February 27, 2025. Photo: Ronald Kumar
Schools and residents near the Dignified Crematorium in Davuilevu have raised health concerns after 4.15 tonnes of methamphetamine were being destroyed under heavy police and military security on Monday.
Thick black smoke affected business owners, students and staff at Bhawani Dayal and Nasinu Muslim Primary Schools.
"We had to distribute masks because students complained of headaches and breathing issues," said Bhawani Dayal teacher Arista Beci.
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"Even teachers felt uneasy."
Some parents picked up their children early. Nasinu Muslim Primary headmaster Mohammed Jalim confirmed his school provided masks and informed the Ministry of Education.
Nausori Town Council chief exÂecutive officer Rajesh Kumar criticised the lack of communication.
"We are deeply concerned about residents and vendors directly exposed to toxic air," he said, adding that complaints had flooded the council.
Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro advised parents to decide whether to send their children to school while the burning continues.
"If there are concerns during school hours, teachers and students should take appropriate action," he said, adding that further discussions with the Fiji Police Force were needed.
Nakasi Market vendor Maciu Tikonaivalu said authorities failed to warn them.
The masthead has confirmed the Ministry of Health was not informed, and no Environmental Impact Assessment was conducted before the burning.
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