The Rara Reservoir project, which cost $2.6 million, faced technical challenges in 2016 that hindered its ability to deliver water to residents in Labasa and nearby areas, leaving communities in Vatudova and Tabia without reliable access for several years. The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) highlighted that capacity limitations in the existing bulk inlet mains posed significant concerns. Attempting to connect the reservoir to the pipeline network at that time would have risked compromising water pressure and reliability, especially for customers situated in elevated regions.
Since then, WAF has clarified that the reservoir itself is not abandoned; rather, it is an integral part of a staged infrastructure development plan aimed at ensuring long-term water reliability and the potential for network expansion throughout the greater Labasa area. Following thorough technical assessments, WAF determined the necessity of a new dedicated inlet main from Benau to Rara to address hydraulic constraints and enhance supply accessibility to underserved regions.
Excitingly, WAF has also revealed strategies for future water security, which include the development of an additional reservoir at Vatudova to bolster resilience further. Acknowledging the community’s frustration over the delays, WAF has assured residents that substantial progress is being made.
The Benau to Rara and Volanau Reservoir Bulk Mains Upgrade Project has been awarded to Sinohydro Corporation Ltd. This initiative involves substantial upgrades, including the installation of approximately 2.7 kilometers of new pipelines from the Benau Water Treatment Plant to the Rara Reservoir, and another 5.5 kilometers from Benau to the Vaturekuka junction. Notably, three major river crossings will also be constructed.
WAF has reported that the contract for the project is officially in place, with preliminary work and community engagement already completed. Procurement of necessary pipes and fittings is underway, and construction equipment has been mobilized in the country. Hydrostatic testing of the installed sections is currently ongoing.
The project is projected to commence by early April 2026, with a completion target by the end of that year. Once the upgrades are finalized, the Rara Reservoir will be seamlessly integrated into the water supply network.
This major infrastructure undertaking is part of the Fijian Government’s commitment to enhancing water accessibility by dedicating resources to the Benau–Rara pipeline works. Additionally, WAF is advancing plans to upgrade the Benau Water Treatment Plant over the upcoming financial years, with the goal of improving treatment capacity, boosting overall system performance, and supporting water supply expansion to currently unserved communities.
By prioritizing improved water storage and access, WAF is steadfast in its dedication to delivering reliable, treated water and reducing the dependency on water carting. The authority remains committed to long-term infrastructure investments and collaborating with stakeholders to strengthen the water supply system in Labasa and throughout Fiji, ensuring a brighter future for all residents.
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