SUVA, Dec. 30 (Xinhua) -- Initial damage assessments showed that subsistence farmers along the riverbanks have been significantly affected by the recent flooding in Fiji, though the impact on key farmers is not severe, said the country's Commissioner Western Apolosi Lewaqai on Monday.
Noting that assessments have been completed, Lewaqai said programs are already in place to assist these farmers with seedlings for rehabilitation, reported Fiji Broadcasting Corporation.
The restoration of infrastructure is a significant challenge for the response teams, the commissioner added.
According to the Fiji Roads Authority, 133 locations have been affected by floodwaters, with road conditions remaining unsafe.
It said that major roads are now open, but rural roads are still being repaired.
Lewaqai stressed on the importance of cleaning homes as soon as possible for those affected by the floods.
As the New Year approaches, the commissioner highlighted the need to continue taking precautionary measures and to use the current favorable weather to clean up the communities.
Local officials have outlined plans for the coming days to help the communities return to normalcy, he added. ■
