Navua Hospital has been experiencing a water shortage for the last three days. Dr. Kapil Swamy, the Sub Divisional Medical Officer (SDMO) for Navua, reported that the hospital had been facing water disruptions since Monday but had provided bottled drinking water and bathing water to patients.
Felichya Kayes, secretary of the Navua Hospital Board of Directors, noted that this water issue had persisted for months. She highlighted that not only the hospital but also local hotels and businesses were impacted by the shortage.
The hospital is collaborating with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services to ensure water availability for patients and staff. The ministry informed that water trucks arrived at the hospital the previous afternoon to refill two 10,000-litre tanks with water.
Local resident Ramesh Prasad expressed concerns about the deteriorating water supply over the past few months, leading many to depend on water tanks. He emphasized the essential nature of water and described the situation as unfortunate, hoping for an improvement soon.
The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) acknowledged that the water supply to the broader Navua area has been inconsistent. As of the most recent update, the Wainikavika raw water source was producing below critical levels due to high demand.
Samuela Rokovaleusa, acting chief operating officer of WAF, stated that they had been forced to ration water through water carting services to distribute fairly among customers in the Navua water supply network. This measure aims to restore water levels and ensure equitable access.
Kameli Ledua, supervisor of Navua water production at WAF, explained that the area is currently facing a drought, resulting in a shortage at the Wainikavika dam. He expressed hope for heavy rain in the coming days to replenish the dam, while also advising prudent water use during this challenging period.