Termite Infestation Leaves Labasa Residents Devastated
Concerned Labasa residents living in the Asian Subterranean Termites (AST) termite hotspot regions in the district are facing a financial outcry because of the termite infestation on their properties.
These residents are now out spending extra money to repair and rebuild parts of their house because of the damages caused by the termites.
Bulileka resident, Surya Deo, said he spent approximately $40,000 to repair his property.
“I had to use my Fiji National Provident Fund (FNPF) retirement savings and the money received from my Accident Compensation Commission Fiji (ACCF) accident case to cover the costs,” he said.
“Even my youngest son, Ashnil Deo, contributed $4000 in the rebuilding process despite his own challenges,” Mr Deo said.
The 59-year-old said despite being in his retirement age, he continues to work as a private carpenter after serving as a Government carpenter with the Public Works Department for 17 years.
Another Bulileka resident, Avinesh Anand, who owns a three bedroom house in the area, said the damages sustained had weakened the overall structure of his house.
“Our sitting room, washroom, kitchen and the backside of the property has been completely destroyed and I am worried whether the house will be able to sustain the cyclone season,” he said.
Mr Anand estimated the cost of repairs to be around $20,000 which he believed was an expensive and financially difficult renovation project to undertake considering these challenging times.
“I am seeking for some sort of assistance for people like me in terms of donating building materials or monetary assistance to support the renovation.”
Meanwhile, in an earlier statement by Biosecurity Authority of Fiji (BAF) acting chief executive officer, Surend Prasad, he stated that their team is continually creating awareness on the issue of AST and assisting those affected with containment efforts.
In the Northern Division, common areas of termite infestation has been identified in Vunivau, Valebasoga, Boca, Bulileka, Malau, Soasoa, Vunika and Batinikama.