Only 28 percent of Fiji’s population currently has access to sanitation services, according to Ro Filipe Tuisawau, the Minister for Public Works. To address this issue, the government is initiating a comprehensive program aimed at extending sanitation services to the remaining 72 percent of the population.
During a recent parliamentary session, Ro Filipe announced that tenders for master plans to enhance sanitation services will be advertised in the coming weeks. He emphasized the necessity of expanding the wastewater program, highlighting several key projects. These include rehabilitating the Pacific Harbour Wastewater Treatment Plant, cleaning and upgrading the Kinoya Wastewater Treatment Plant, and installing new diffusers at the Wailada Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Additionally, Ro Filipe noted that water catchment areas in specific regions, especially in the Western Division and maritime islands, are at critical levels. Following last month’s heavy rainfall, 14 out of 17 water catchments in the Central Division showed improvements. However, some areas in the Lomaiviti Group remain critical, with three sources in the Western Division still at critical levels, while eight have returned to normal.
He urged all Fijians to conserve water and adopt careful water usage practices. The Northern Division has also faced low pressure, although rainfall there has been less severe, leaving certain areas in need of assistance.