11 Apr 2012

Up to 40,000 Fiji flood victims on rations

11:06 pm on 11 April 2012

Fiji's Disaster Management Office says up to 40,000 people are receiving rations following floods that killed at least six people and caused widespread devastation.

The west of the main island of Viti Levu was swamped after torrential rain earlier in April.

Director Pajiliai Dobui says the number of people in evacuation centres stands at just over 1800.

About 2000 of the 14,000 people forced out of their homes still have not been able to return, Radio New Zealand International reports.

Mr Dobui says rations are being distributed to the remaining evacuees, as well as the families affected by flooding.