More than 120 households will be targeted in the first three weeks of Operation Kadivuka in Lautoka.
The operation is set to start later this week. It sees the engagement of 120 personnel from various Government ministries and departments. Also included will be officers from the National Fire Authority.
Engineers from the Public Works Department led by divisional engineer works Mr Manasa Lesuma have been roped in to assist in the removal of walls infested with the deadly termite. Senior biosecurity officer Western Mr Lemeki Ratucicivi says all those involved in the operation have been appointed as Temporary Biosecurity Officers by the Permanent Secretary for Agriculture, Col Mason Smith.
The appointments follow the promulgation of the Biosecurity Decree 2008.
Mr Ratucicivi says among areas to be targeted are Tomuka, Tavakubu, Naikabula, Natabua, Saru, Tawatawa, and Vitogo Paipai. Residents in these areas should be expecting biosecurity officers within the next few days. The deadly termites build their colonies six to 18ft underground and around a 300ft radius.
Residents in Lautoka, who think the termite may be in their houses, have been advised to refrain from disturbing its colonies as the termites are easily enraged. They are also attracted to light and fly only at night.
As a precautionary measure members of the public are advised that all biosecurity officers are wearing identification cards and home owners should demand to sight these cards before allowing them entry. A consent form will also need to be signed by the home owner.
Complaints or queries on the termite infestation can be directed to the Quarantine Department on 6665984 or see a quarantine officer at their office in Marine Drive, Lautoka.