Heavy rainfall has caused significant disruptions in the water supply in Fiji’s Tamavua system due to increased turbidity levels in the water sources. The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) has reported that three key catchments—Headworks 3, Savura, and Waimanu—are affected. The Waimanu pump station registered a turbidity spike of 415 NTU, resulting in a combined turbidity level of 373 NTU at the Tamavua Water Treatment Plant (WTP); this exceeds the plant’s processing capability of 60 million liters per day.
In response, WAF has reduced the water inflow to 65 million liters per day, which is below the typical requirement of 75 million liters to meet full demand. Consequently, reservoir levels have dropped by two meters from 3.20 meters to just 1.20 meters, leading to water pressure issues and supply disruptions, particularly in elevated areas.
To address the situation, WAF has deployed a fleet of 40 water carting trucks to deliver temporary water supplies to impacted regions, including Lami, Wailoku, Samabula, and Tamavua Koro. Although valve operations and water rationing have been implemented, their effectiveness has been limited due to the low reservoir levels.
The Water Authority is dedicated to restoring normal water production and quality and is actively working on reducing turbidity levels to reinstate the inflow back to the required 75 million liters per day. WAF appreciates customers’ patience during this challenging time and encourages them to conserve water and take necessary precautions.
This situation has some parallels with previous challenges faced due to heavy rains from Tropical Cyclone Rae, emphasizing the importance of water quality management during extreme weather events. As WAF continues to address the operational challenges, there is a hopeful outlook for restoring water supply, reinforcing the necessity of community support and preparedness in navigating difficulties such as these.
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