Recent rainfall has provided much-needed relief to the main raw water sources for the Suva Nausori system, although it has also led to increased turbidity levels. The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) addressed inquiries about water levels at treatment facilities along the Navua to Nausori corridor, indicating that the heightened turbidity in the Waimanu River has particularly impacted production at the Tamavua Water Treatment Plant.
WAF stated that during periods of continuous rainfall, the rise in turbidity affects water production, reservoir levels, and flow rates, especially for elevated and distant customers. They noted that recovery for the system typically takes two to three days following significant rainfall.
To mitigate the situation, WAF is undertaking a project to connect the Viria Water Treatment system with the Tamavua system. Additionally, there are plans for further investments aimed at enhancing service delivery during heavy rainfall events over the next two to three years. This includes upgrading the water treatment plant and increasing its treatment capacity at the Tamavua facility.