In Suva, numerous business operators have been found to have made unauthorized connections to the wastewater system, raising concerns about the integrity of the city’s sewage management. The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) has revealed that a recent smoke test survey uncovered 11 specific businesses on Cumming Street that illegally connected their stormwater drains to the wastewater system — a discovery that highlights a more extensive issue.
Dr. Amit Chanan, WAF’s chief executive officer, noted that a staggering 78% of connections in the Suva Central Business District (CBD) have been identified as illegal. WAF has addressed this situation by reaching out to the affected businesses, instructing them to rectify their connections to prevent contamination and overflows into the stormwater system.
WAF emphasizes the importance of compliance, especially as heavy rains can exacerbate the problem by overloading the wastewater lines, leading to potentially hazardous overflows. The authority is urging business owners and the public to examine their stormwater connections, ensuring they are not illegally linked to the sewer network, and to take immediate action if they find they are in violation.
This situation serves as a crucial reminder for businesses in Suva to adhere to proper regulations and environmental practices, ultimately aiming for a healthier urban infrastructure. By cooperating with WAF and making necessary adjustments, these businesses can play a vital role in maintaining the city’s sewage integrity, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
Furthermore, the community’s awareness can foster responsible business practices and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable Suva.
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