Residents of Naqaliso Settlement in Davuilevu Housing are on high alert as heavy rain and an approaching tropical depression threaten homes already affected by recent flooding.

Families say blocked drainage during nearby development works worsened the situation, disrupting water flow in low-lying areas.

Many are now concerned about health risks such as leptospirosis and dengue.

Fiji One News sought comments from the Ministry of Justice and the Fiji Corrections Services.

They responded that the matter has been referred to the Ministry of Waterways and the Fiji Roads Authority, which are now looking into the issue.

Settlement Committee President Ashwini Lata says poor planning by contractors is to blame.

“This flooding is a direct result of poor planning. Children are unable to attend school because the roads and walkways are covered with water. Elderly residents are also struggling to move around or access health services. Our daily lives have been disrupted”, Lata highlighted.

Lata says children are unable to attend school, elderly residents struggle to access health services, and families cannot move around freely.

She warns that without urgent action, the community will continue to flood with every heavy rainfall.

Residents are now calling for immediate drainage restoration ahead of the tropical depression.

“We are very concerned about health risks like leptospirosis and dengue, especially with another tropical depression approaching. We urge the government and the Ministry of Health to come and survey the area immediately before the situation becomes worse. We need urgent action now”, she said.

BY: JOELI RAGONELIWA