Fiji’s Water Supply Crisis: Can WAF Overcome the Aftermath of Extreme Weather?

The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) is facing significant operational challenges at the Tamavua Water Treatment Plant due to heavy rainfall from Wednesday night. This extreme weather led to an increase in turbidity levels in the raw water, severely impacting water production capabilities and resulting in dangerously low water levels at the Tamavua Reservoir.

As a direct result of these conditions, numerous areas are experiencing issues with water supply, ranging from low pressure to complete outages. Regions affected include the Tamavua Reservoir, Nagatugatu Reservoir, Tacirua Reservoir, and Dokanaisuva Reservoir, with higher elevations suffering the most due to their reliance on these systems.

In response, WAF has deployed a fleet of 40 water carting trucks to provide temporary assistance to those impacted. Treatment teams are actively working to stabilize operations and restore water supply as quickly as possible. Residents have been urged to conserve water and practice patience while recovery efforts are being conducted.

This situation echoes previous difficulties encountered by WAF due to rainfall from Tropical Cyclone Rae, which highlighted the critical need for effective water quality management. In the past, WAF had to adjust the inflow of raw water to manage treatment capacity, which in turn affected both reservoir levels and overall water supply. The authority is implementing active management strategies, including alternating supply sources to cope with turbidity levels and optimize treatment processes.

While the community prepares for further potential disruptions, it is advisable for residents to store enough water for essential needs, limit non-essential usage, and keep any stored water clean and covered. WAF’s coordinated efforts are aimed at ensuring the health and safety of the community during this difficult period.

Despite these operational hurdles, there remains a positive outlook as WAF is dedicated to restoring normalcy in the water supply. Continued cooperation from the community is vital, enhancing resilience and ensuring that everyone has access to essential water resources.