More than 300,000 residents in the region stretching from Nausori to Lami have been facing unreliable water supply for the past two weeks due to the impact of heavy rains and flooding on local water systems. The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) has been issuing advisories, urging residents in Central Eastern Fiji to brace for potential further disruptions caused by adverse weather conditions.
Frustration among the public has been growing as many believe that WAF has not adequately resolved the ongoing water supply challenges. Peni Shute, acting manager of communications and stakeholder engagement at WAF, emphasized that they are making efforts to communicate the reasons behind the water shortages and are providing water carting assistance to those in need. He noted that heavy rain has significantly strained the operations at the Tamavua treatment plant, stating, “Whenever there’s heavy rain, it’ll strain our treatment plant.”
WAF has highlighted that severe rainfall can block water intake systems, decrease reservoir levels, and increase turbidity as floodwaters transport debris into raw water sources. Residents are advised to store enough water to meet their needs for at least 2-3 days to navigate through this challenging period.
To further assist those facing immediate water needs, WAF encourages residents to reach out via their national call center at 5777 or landline 3346777 for coordination of water delivery trucks. Mr. Shute reaffirmed that current service interruptions are not a result of intentional cuts: “it’s not because we are purposefully turning off the lines.”
Despite these challenges, the community’s resilience is noteworthy. Collective efforts among government agencies, community leaders, and residents are critical for addressing these persistent issues. There is hope that proactive measures will lead to enhanced water infrastructure and sustainable solutions, improving the overall quality of life for those affected.
In summary, the ongoing water supply issues have created significant barriers for many residents due to harsh weather conditions, but WAF remains committed to managing the situation and providing necessary support. With community cooperation and preparedness, it is possible to navigate these temporary disruptions and work towards a more reliable water supply system in the future.
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