Flooding at the Votualevu Roundabout continues to create problems for motorists and the public during heavy rain, with blocked drains caused by rubbish disposal identified as a major contributing factor.

While severe weather is often blamed for road flooding, drainage issues linked to waste dumping are also adding to the problem.

The Fiji Roads Authority has continued regular drainage maintenance and jetting works at the roundabout in an effort to reduce flooding. However, the issue continues to reoccur.

Recent drain-clearing operations uncovered large amounts of waste, including plastic bottles, food containers and shopping bags, blocking drainage systems and preventing rainwater from flowing properly.

As a result, water quickly accumulates on the road during heavy rainfall, causing traffic disruptions and safety concerns for motorists.

Similar drainage problems are also affecting other parts of the country, highlighting the ongoing challenge of improper waste disposal and its impact on public infrastructure.

Authorities are urging the public to dispose of rubbish responsibly and avoid dumping waste into drains and waterways, stressing that community cooperation plays an important role in reducing flooding risks.

The situation at Votualevu Roundabout serves as a reminder that maintaining clean and functional drainage systems is a shared responsibility between authorities and the public.