Editorial: Toxic Negligence

The shocking mishandling of methamphetamine destruction in Davuilevu has exposed a staggering level of incompetence among Fijian authorities. That no one foresaw the environmental and health hazards of burning over four tonnes of toxic drugs near schools, markets, and residential areas is beyond belief. This is a failure of planning, communication, and basic common sense-one that put lives at risk.

Across the world, nations handle drug disposal with strict environmental controls. In the United States, for example, high-temperature incinerators with advanced filtration systems prevent toxic fumes from escaping. Australia follows a similar protocol, ensuring hazardous waste is neutralised in controlled, isolated environments.

Even Indonesia, which has conducted large-scale drug burns, has done so in remote locations far from populated areas, often using enclosed facilities to limit pollution.

Fiji, in contrast, opted for an open-air burn with no clear safety measures. The result? Students suffering breathing difficulties, teachers struggling with chest pains, and vendors exposed to toxic smoke without warning. Parents had to remove their children from school, and even the Nausori Town Council was blindsided by the lack of communication.

Authorities have justified this reckless decision by citing national security concerns. But should security be prioritised over public health? At what cost?

The destruction of such a large quantity of drugs was undoubtedly important, but the failure to consider its environmental and health consequences is inexcusable.

Proper procedures exist to safely neutralise such substances-yet officials went ahead without an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), disregarding the safety of thousands.

Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro's response was nothing short of disgraceful. Suggesting that parents send their children to school "at their own discretion" while the burning continues is a failure of responsibility. The Permanent Secretary's office "inquiring" about the situation is not enough-why wasn't this anticipated in the first place? And where was the Ministry of Health in all this? It has now emerged that they were completely unaware of the process. That alone should be cause for heads to roll.

And now, a critical question remains unanswered: if residents, students, or vendors suffer long-term health complications from exposure to the toxic fumes, who in Government will foot the bill? Will the Ministry of Health be responsible for their medical expenses, or will affected individuals be left to suffer on their own?

This matter cannot be brushed aside. The Government must immediately conduct an independent inquiry, hold those responsible accountable, and put strict protocols in place for future drug disposal National security is important, but not at the cost of public health and safety.

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