Residents of the Tamavua and Namadi areas are urging for a lasting resolution to the ongoing water supply problems that have affected them for years. Despite experiencing frequent heavy rainfall, local residents are still facing regular water outages, with the most recent disruption taking place last Saturday.
Community members have expressed their frustration with the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF), which has repeatedly blamed the issues on low water levels or water quality concerns. Long-time resident Epeli Rabua noted that the situation has deteriorated over the past 15 years, stating, “We sometimes go without water for nearly two weeks,” and he emphasized the impact on daily life, including difficulties in commuting and increased costs for households in elevated areas.
Another resident, who preferred to remain anonymous, remarked on how the community has learned to cope with the situation, yet remains frustrated—especially when water delivery trucks fail to arrive on time or don’t meet the needs of all families.
However, there is a glimmer of hope for the affected communities. Minister for Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services Ro Filipe Tuisawau announced ongoing infrastructure projects designed to alleviate water supply issues. The Suva-Nausori corridor currently requires 173 million liters of water daily, surpassing available supply. To help meet this demand, the $40 million Viria Water Treatment Plant is being constructed, which will add an extra 40 million liters of water per day, supporting both current needs and future population growth.
Moreover, the Princes Road Water Infrastructure Project is set to bring substantial upgrades to the water supply in elevated areas, addressing some of the unique challenges faced by Tamavua, Tacirua, and Khalsa Road. This initiative includes the replacement of existing pumping systems with a gravity-fed system, enhancing resilience against high turbidity events.
Key aspects of the project entail constructing new pipelines and reservoirs that will significantly improve water delivery and reliability. Residents are hopeful that these developments will finally rectify long-standing issues with water availability.
This situation serves as a reminder of the resilience of communities in facing challenges while also highlighting the importance of infrastructure investment to secure essential resources such as water. The ongoing initiatives not only aim to resolve immediate issues but also plan for sustainable improvements that can accommodate future growth—offering optimism for a brighter future for local residents.
Leave a comment