The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources in Fiji is conducting an airborne geophysical survey aimed at pinpointing groundwater sources to provide clean drinking water to communities currently lacking access. Minister Filimoni Vosarogo informed Parliament that the survey, which began last month, is supported by the Australian Government and Geoscience Australia, and utilizes an aircraft equipped with advanced technology for rapid and efficient mapping of extensive areas.
Minister Vosarogo highlighted that the traditional Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT) method has limitations, primarily being slow and labor-intensive, which the new airborne technology seeks to overcome. This initiative focuses on priority regions in Viti Levu and Vanua Levu that do not receive services from the Fiji Water Authority.
The areas being surveyed include significant locations such as the Sigatoka Valley, Cuvu, Malomalo, and various parts of Vanua Levu. The Minister anticipates that by December 2025, the survey will generate hundreds, possibly thousands, of drilling targets for future groundwater access efforts.
Currently, the ministry’s drilling successes stand at 80%, and with the implementation of this innovative technology, they hope to increase this success rate to 90%. While there is always some risk involved with boreholes not yielding enough water, this survey represents a significant step towards improving Fiji’s water security.
In related advances, earlier initiatives have included plans to construct boreholes and improve the water infrastructure, thus bolstering the government’s commitment to sustainable water management and ensuring better health outcomes for its citizens.
This proactive effort reflects a hopeful future where all Fijians can gain access to safe drinking water, particularly in underserved areas, thereby enhancing public health and economic opportunities across the nation. The collaboration with international partners underscores Fiji’s commitment to addressing vital resource challenges effectively, aiming to create a more sustainable and resilient community.
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