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๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ฏ Fiji /Disasters & Emergencies

New Evacuation Centre Opens in Vuniyalayala Settlement

From FBC News · (18m ago) English Positive tone

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • Vuniyalayala Settlement in Labasa now has a new, furnished evacuation center.
  • The center, funded by the government at over $30,000, can accommodate approximately 90 households.
  • This facility replaces a previous center that was difficult to access during heavy rains due to a flooding bridge.

The opening of the new Vuniyalayala Evacuation Centre in Labasa represents a significant step forward in ensuring the safety and well-being of our community members. For too long, residents faced perilous journeys to reach a safe haven during natural disasters, often having to cross a bridge that would flood during heavy rainfall. This new facility, funded by the Government, not only provides a much-needed shelter but also eliminates the dangerous obstacle of crossing a flooded bridge. The $30,000 investment demonstrates the Government's commitment to building disaster-resilient communities and prioritizing the safety of its citizens. This center will serve approximately 90 households, offering them peace of mind and a secure place to go when disaster strikes. It is a testament to the Government's dedication to improving infrastructure and providing essential services to all Fijians, especially those in vulnerable areas.

Previously, our nearest evacuation centre was a nearby school. However, to get to the school, we had to cross a bridge, and when it rained heavily, the bridge would flood. We would then have to find ways or swim across the bridge to get to the nearest evacuation center. But that will change from tonight onwards. We are so grateful to the Government for being able to help us in ensuring the safety of community members.

โ€” Niresh ChandPresident of Vuniyalayala Latchmi Narayan Mandir, explaining the previous difficulties in accessing an evacuation center.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by FBC News in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.