The Fiji Red Cross Society states COVID-19 movement restrictions could be placing the lives of thousands of people living in tents on Vanua Levu at risk.
Director general Ilisapeci Rokotunidau said they were unable to send crucial items like water tanks and without safe drinking water and hygiene facilities, tent dwellers could be vulnerable should they be exposed to the virus.
“We understand and support the importance of movement restrictions around Fiji to contain further spread of COVID-19, yet this virus has struck a double blow for those who were severely affected by Tropical Cyclone Yasa as it is almost impossible to transport relief items across to Vanua Levu,” she said.
“We made significant progress supporting communities as they started rebuilding in the first three months of the year, however, there is still much more that needs to be done to help people rebuild their homes, make sure there’s clean drinking water so communities can thrive again.
“Equipment and supplies have been flown in from overseas and we are ready to get them from the warehouses to the villages, the moment movement restrictions are eased.”
Travel restrictions to Vanua Levu came into effect on May 9 and Government has yet to commence inter-island travel for members of the public from Viti Levu to Vanua Levu.
