Flooding linked to poor drainage continued to affect a section of Vaitele near the bluish-green shop after Frankie’s, where Supakako taxis park, following recent heavy rain over the weekend.

On Wednesday, water remained pooled along the roadside and around the taxi parking area, days after rainfall eased. The standing water forced drivers to park further away and pedestrians to walk through flooded sections to access nearby shops. The situation did not ease with the continuous downpour over the weekend.

A taxi driver, Alesana Iopu, in the area said the problem is ongoing and worsens during periods of heavy rain. They claim the drains are either blocked or unable to cope with the volume of water, allowing runoff to collect instead of flowing away.

“We are here every day, and this is not new,” one driver said. “When it rains hard, the water just stays. Sometimes it takes days to go down.”

Shop workers, Xena Kionaula said, customers were avoiding the area because of the water, affecting daily business. Others raised concerns about health risks, noting that stagnant water attracts mosquitoes and produces an unpleasant smell.

Rubbish and debris were visible in nearby drains, which the public believed were contributing to the problem. Some said regular cleaning of drainage channels could reduce flooding in the short term, while long-term upgrades are needed as heavier rain becomes more frequent.

The flooded section is located along a busy stretch of road used by taxis and the public throughout the day, increasing safety concerns for both drivers and pedestrians.

Drivers, the public and workers in the area are calling on relevant authorities to inspect the drainage system and take action before further rain worsens the situation.

The situation mirrors Matautu, where poor drainage has also left roads waterlogged after rain. Residents in both areas are urging authorities to act, warning that repeated flooding poses risks to public health, safety and daily livelihoods.