Posted on January 16, 2018
By Luisa Qiolevu, The Fiji Times ONLINE
DREDGING works in Labasa are expected to mitigate negative effects of heavy rain in the area.
Minister for Waterways Dr Mahendra Reddy commissioned dredging works at the Qawa River mouth, Korovatu floodgate outlet and the Labasa River mouth yesterday.
Dr Reddy said the dredging of the Qawa River mouth would be completed in two weeks with 400,000 cubic metres of silt extracted.
“This will ensure rapid outflow of rainwater from flood-prone areas of Vunika, Vuo, Mala, Bulileka, Batinikama and Namoli villages,” he said.
Dr Reddy said the dredging of the Labasa River mouth or navigational channel would be completed in six week’s time.
“Approximately 160,000 cubic metres of silt will be extracted.
“This will ensure rapid outflow of rainwater from flood-prone areas of Labasa Town, Naiyaca, Nacula, Korotari and Korowiri.
“The third area, which is the dredging of the Korovatu floodgate outlet, will be completed in six weeks. “Approximately 150,000 cubic metres of silt will be extracted.”
He said the dredging of the Korovatu floodgate outlet would ensure rapid outflow of rainwater from flood-prone areas of Nagigi, Nararo, Wariwari and Matailabasa.
“We are seriously looking at all flood-prone areas.
“We will do all that is required to minimise any negative impact of rainwater on agriculture and households in settlements and villages.”
Source: The Fiji Times ONLINE
