Navua Hospital has experienced a water shortage for the past three days. Sub Divisional Medical Officer (SDMO) Navua, Dr. Kapil Swamy, reported that the water disruption began on Monday, but patients have been supplied with bottled drinking water and water for bathing.
Felichya Kayes, secretary of the Navua Hospital Board of Directors, remarked that the water situation has been ongoing for several months and has impacted not only the hospital but also local hotels and businesses. She stated that efforts are being made in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Medical Services (MOHMS) to address the water needs for both patients and staff.
The Ministry confirmed that water trucks were dispatched to the hospital yesterday afternoon to replenish two 10,000-litre water tanks. Local resident Ramesh Prasad expressed concerns about the diminishing water supply over the past few months, noting that many residents have turned to using water tanks.
Prasad highlighted the critical nature of water access, stating, “Water is the most important need, everyone needs water. This is a very sad situation, and we hope this gets better.”
The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) acknowledged the intermittent water supply affecting the greater Navua area. An update indicated that production from the Wainikavika raw water source is below critical levels due to high demand.
WAF’s acting chief operating officer, Samuela Rokovaleusa, explained that, to manage the situation, they have resorted to rationing water through carting services to ensure equitable distribution among residents in the Navua water supply system.
Kameli Ledua, the WAF Navua water production supervisor, cited drought conditions as a significant factor, resulting in low water levels at the Wainikavika dam. He expressed hope for rain in the coming days to alleviate the water shortage, emphasizing the need for wise consumption during this challenging time.