Several business operators in Suva have been found to have unlawfully connected their establishments to the wastewater system, unbeknownst to the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF). In relation to sewage overflow issues on Cumming Street, WAF’s CEO Dr. Amit Chanan revealed that a smoke test survey uncovered 11 businesses with unauthorized stormwater connections.
Dr. Chanan indicated that WAF has communicated formally with the affected businesses to facilitate proper stormwater connections. Alarmingly, it was reported that an overwhelming 78% of stormwater connections in the Suva Central Business District are illegal.
WAF has advised all customers to review their stormwater connections, particularly as heavy rains can lead to stormwater overloads on wastewater lines and pumping systems, resulting in undesired overflows. The authority has urged those with illegal connections to cease discharging stormwater into the sewer system to mitigate the strain on the network.
This situation underscores the importance of compliance with local regulations to protect the environment and community health. By addressing these illegal connections, Suva can work towards a more efficient wastewater management system. This proactive stance by WAF not only aims to rectify existing issues but also promotes community awareness and accountability, guiding businesses to act responsibly in maintaining proper infrastructure.
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