National sewer and wastewater management issues are poised to receive significant attention with the establishment of the first National Sewer Management Compliance Committee. This initiative is spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change and unites pivotal agencies including municipal councils, the Water Authority of Fiji, and the Ministry of Health.
Dr. Sivendra Michael, Permanent Secretary, highlighted that this committee was formed in response to a surge in public complaints and rising environmental concerns associated with sewer management systems. He underscored the urgency for a coordinated, accountable approach to safeguard both community health and the environment. “Environmental protection begins at the household level. Compliance, responsibility, and respect for infrastructure are essential if we are serious about protecting public health and our environment,” he emphasized.
The contributions from municipal councils have also been valuable, pointing out practical challenges to ensure that the compliance procedures proposed by the committee are effective and enforceable. The Department of Environment will lead the committee, with the Water Authority of Fiji taking the role of Co-Chair and the Ministry of Health providing Secretarial support.
The inaugural meeting of the committee was centered around defining the roles of various agencies, addressing ongoing operational challenges, and advancing Standard Operating Procedures for effective enforcement and response measures. This collaboration is expected to enhance national compliance efforts, thereby protecting public health and preserving Fiji’s waterways for future generations.
The establishment of this committee marks a hopeful step towards improving Fiji’s sewer management systems and safeguarding the environment, ensuring that community health remains a top priority.
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