Vaileka Creek neglect linked to Rakiraki flooding

Officials from the Rakiraki Town Council have highlighted the ongoing challenges of flooding in Vaileka Creek, attributing the recurring issue to upstream conditions and a lack of recent comprehensive maintenance. Appearing before Parliament’s Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence, Chief Executive Sailosi Sawana explained that while routine desilting occurs within town drains, Vaileka Creek itself was last fully desilted in 2018.

Sawana noted that drainage responsibilities are shared among the Fiji Roads Authority, the Ministry of Waterways, and the council. He stated that despite regular drain maintenance within town areas, upstream factors continue to exacerbate flooding in Vaileka during heavy rainfall. The council has formally raised the need for further intervention with the relevant authorities.

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the town was highly flood-prone.

In addition to flooding concerns, the council presented updates on its annual reports for 2020-2021, confirming that reports for 2021-2025 are complete and awaiting printing, with financial statements finalized and audited. Progress on Sustainable Development Goals, including poverty reduction and gender equality, was also outlined. However, planned upgrades to the Rakiraki market, which would include office spaces and commercial outlets, remain on hold due to rising costs, with new budget submissions made for future funding.

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upstream conditions continue to worsen flooding in Vaileka during heavy rain.