Families evacuate from Batiniwai Settlement as flooding threatens safety

Thirty‑six people from Rabi who live in Batiniwai Settlement in Caubati have been evacuated to St Agnes Primary School in Nabua.

The evacuation took place after flooding from Tropical Cyclone Vaianu threatened their safety on Tuesday night.

The 11 families, 27 children and nine adults were moved by the National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDMO) as the river near the settlement rose dangerously.

It is the same settlement where a landslide last November destroyed the only footpath used by 120 families and cut off their water supply.

Torabuti Tekarika, who was among evacuees, said they left with what they could carry – cooking pots, food, and little else.

"There are those who brought their food and those who didn't, so people are helping out one another," he said.

The families are sheltering together in the school hall, with some using an upper floor.

Mr Tekarika said the Government provided breakfast, lunch and dinner, as well as transport to the evacuation centre.

His message to others in similar settlements was clear.

"The very important thing is being obedient to the decisions made by the government. If you don't listen, you'll end up in trouble or in bad situations," he said.

As of this morning, Category 3 TC Vaianu, was tracking southeast and moving away from Fiji.

However, a flash flood warning remained in force for Viti Levu, with heavy rain continuing across the country.

The families said they were waiting for NDMO clearance before returning home.

Residents in informal settlements and flood-prone areas are urged to remain vigilant, follow official advisories, and check on elderly neighbours and those who may need help.