Navua Hospital has been experiencing a lack of piped water for a week, forcing patients and visitors to use nearby bushes for sanitation. The clogged sinks and toilets have created an unpleasant odor, raising concerns among residents. A team from a local news outlet spoke with relatives visiting patients, who mentioned the need to purchase drinking water for those admitted to the struggling facility.
Outpatients reported that the toilets had not been flushed for days, leading to unsanitary conditions. One staff member, who wished to remain anonymous, noted that the situation is deteriorating as the water cut continues. “For the toilet, I just go behind the buildings,” the staff member said, adding that the environment has become a breeding ground for germs.
Keresi Nasoni, who brought her granddaughter for treatment, indicated that water shortages at the hospital have been an ongoing issue, imposing additional stress on patients and their families. Patient Shalendra Maharaj described the conditions as unacceptable, stating, “I went to the toilet but had to run away from there. It is so filthy and smelly. This is an essential service, and patients spend long hours here. Water should be running in the hospital 24/7.”
Another parent, Olly, whose young son is unwell, expressed frustration that authorities seem indifferent to addressing this critical and ongoing problem. “This should be a priority because it puts us at risk,” she said.
Attempts to gain a response from the Ministry of Health regarding the situation went unanswered.