The Waterways Ministry has identified nine riverbanks which will undertake major structural work aimed at improving its durability.

Minister, Dr Mahendra Reddy says the riverbank protection work includes building of retaining wall, stone protection and toe protection with stone diversion groynes.

Reddy adds seven rivers from the central division, one from the northern division and western division respectively have been identified.

“We intend to do some work in terms of the environmental impact assessment and development plan to mitigate the negative impact on the environment. Following that, we intend to start work maybe in two months’ time. This is the structural work for the riverbank protection.”

The rivers are Nadakuni village riverbank, Wainawaqa, Savu village, Nakaile, Draubuta, Wainibuabua and Nadaro in the central division while Labasa river in the northern division and Mataniqara riverbank in the western side.