Approximately 100 families in Vatutavui Village, Tavua, have been grappling with a severe water supply crisis for the past three weeks, affecting around 500 residents. The village relies solely on a solar-powered borehole, which has prompted village headman Niko Sucuvakaivalu to ration the water due to heightened demand. As a result, residents have been forced to depend heavily on water tanks, drums, and bottled water.
The Water Authority of Fiji had initially provided relief through water carting services, but those efforts came to an abrupt stop after Sucuvakaivalu made the difficult decision to halt the services. This has led to growing concerns among villagers over their diminishing water resources. Kirikiti Biu, president of the Vatutavui drinking water committee, has called upon the government to intervene and ensure that water carting services resume to alleviate the community’s plight.
Biu emphasized that, apart from utilizing their limited stored water, villagers have resorted to walking 30 minutes to a nearby stream located over 1.5 kilometers away. “The biggest issue within this village is access to water,” he remarked, highlighting that the dire situation has persisted since the village’s establishment. He pointed out that the current dry season, compounded by a lack of rainfall, has exacerbated the problem, particularly affecting families with schoolchildren and elderly relatives who are unwell.
Community members previously established a water projects committee in 2017, which successfully raised funds for a borehole, and received some assistance from the previous government to provide water tanks for certain households. However, persistent problems have led to unanswered inquiries directed to both the Transport and Public Works Minister, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, and the Water Authority of Fiji.
The water crisis in Vatutavui reflects broader challenges faced by many communities across Fiji, as persistent supply issues continue to hamper daily life. Regions like Tavua and Tamavua have recently reported similar water shortages, highlighting the pressing need for infrastructural improvements and sustainable solutions to ensure a reliable water supply.
With the backdrop of a looming infrastructure upgrade plan by the government, including significant investments in water treatment facilities and distribution projects, there is a renewed sense of hope that these long-standing water supply challenges across various communities, including Vatutavui, will soon see resolution. The commitment from authorities to enhance access to clean water could lead to lasting change, improving the quality of life for affected residents.
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