The Water Authority of Fiji is actively managing domestic and industrial wastewater across its 11 treatment facilities. In a recent presentation to the Standing Committee on Natural Resources, CEO Amit Chanan highlighted the critical need for upgrades to ensure compliance with the Environmental Management Act, noting that none of the treatment plants are currently fully compliant.

Chanan explained that their liquid trade waste unit mandates industrial users to pre-treat wastewater before it enters the network. To address compliance issues, the authority has been issuing abatement notices to customers who fail to meet regulations, which can include illegal stormwater connections or the discharge of untreated wastewater.

Despite these efforts, Chanan acknowledged that the authority lacks the legal power to impose infringement notices directly. This power was approved by Parliament in July 2022, but they are still waiting for the line ministry to grant the necessary approvals to implement these powers. Currently, this limitation hinders their effectiveness in curtailing non-compliant activities.

Historically, in 2018, numerous businesses were flagged for non-compliance concerning liquid trade waste and grease trap regulations, which were established in June 2017. Since the initiation of awareness programs, a total of 27 abatement notices have been issued.

While the current situation highlights challenges in wastewater management, it also reflects the authority’s commitment to improving infrastructure and compliance in the sector. The initiatives detailed in their water sector 2050 strategy indicate a forward-thinking approach to solving these issues, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally responsible wastewater system in Fiji.

In summary, the Water Authority of Fiji is taking steps to enhance wastewater treatment operations, addressing compliance issues while planning for the future. With forthcoming legal powers and a strategic focus, there is hope for significant improvements in Fiji’s wastewater management landscape.