In the hills overlooking Labasa’s Rara subdivision, the Lajonia Rara reservoir stands as a significant structure, initially built with the intent to provide piped water to the communities of Wailevu, Rara, and Tabia. Developed over a decade ago at a cost of $2.6 million, it was envisioned as a solution to years of water scarcity, promising families relief from the daily struggle of fetching water from nearby creeks and relying on rainwater.
Despite raising initial hopes when construction commenced in 2016 following its proposal in 2014 by the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF), the reservoir has unfortunately never fulfilled its purpose. Currently, it remains unconnected, leaving many residents still dependent on boreholes, creeks, and rainwater for their most basic needs. This has turned the reservoir into a poignant symbol of unfulfilled promises and inadequate infrastructure.
In 2023, Amit Chanan, the then WAF chief executive officer, indicated that work on a second phase of the project was anticipated. He stated plans were in motion to connect the Benau reservoir to the Rara reservoir to initiate actual water supply. Further phases were also discussed, including extending pipelines to Tabia and surrounding areas. Despite these assurances, no tangible progress has been observed, leading to frustration among the residents.
WAF has since affirmed that some work is being executed by its contractor, Sinohydro Corporation Limited, in efforts to convert existing infrastructure into operational pipelines linked to the Lajonia reservoir. Moreover, WAF has embarked on plans for a new reservoir in Vatudova, which they hope will further enhance water supply in the region. This next project will involve consultations and surveys that have already been initiated, but WAF acknowledges challenges ahead, including land acquisition and environmental assessments necessary for the project’s advancement.
For the local residents, actions and plans are of little solace when they still face dry taps. The imposing structure of the reservoir looms as a constant reminder of the unmet hopes dating back to 2014. As women continue to wash clothes in the creek and families ration their water during drier periods, the dream of convenient access to water remains just that—a dream.
Despite the challenges presented, the ongoing dialogue about future projects signals a potential for improvement in the water supply issues faced by these communities. Residents and leaders alike hold on to the hope that commitments will eventually lead to real progress in ensuring a reliable water source, transforming the long-standing hardships into a history of resilience and eventual success.
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