In Suva, many students have been forced to miss school due to ongoing water disruptions that have been affecting several neighborhoods. Jone Veikauyaki, a student from Delainavesi, is one of those impacted as the water supply in his area was recently shut down. His father, Yate Veikauyaki, voiced concerns over how these frequent outages are hindering his children’s education, stating, “We just have some water left for drinking,” indicating the severity of the situation as they struggle to keep up with daily necessities.
Mr. Veikauyaki noted that the family faces difficulties in managing laundry and household hygiene, as their water supply has dwindled to critical levels. “Clothes have piled up, dishes are not washed, and our toilets are uncleaned. It has become very difficult for us to send our children to school,” he lamented. They had relied on rainwater, but that resource has also run dry.
Similarly, Sera Ralawa, a student at Dudley High School from Lami Village, could not attend school due to the water issues plaguing her family. Her brother, Sefanaia Jitoko, revealed that the water shortages were affecting his entire household, comprised of 15 people including young children. He echoed the frustration felt by many residents, remarking that the water cuts are not a new problem but a long-standing issue that remains unresolved.
These sentiments reflect a more widespread crisis, as highlighted by other families in the Suva area. Residents in neighborhoods like Khalsa Road have been vocal about their difficulties with water shortages that have persisted for nearly two years. Families are concerned about their children’s health and education due to the lack of basic resources such as clean water, which has left them unable to perform routine tasks like washing clothes or ensuring sanitary conditions within their homes.
Despite ongoing challenges, there is a hopeful outlook as residents are actively seeking solutions and pressing local authorities for action. The Water Authority of Fiji has been urged to improve communication and management of water supplies, assuring residents that they are monitoring the situation closely. This reflects the community’s determination to resolve these issues together, emphasizing the need for accountability and timely responses from local governance.
Efforts for better infrastructure and reliable access to water services are critical not only for alleviating current burdens but also for securing a better future for the children affected in these areas. By coming together and raising their voices, the community can spur improvements that may enhance their quality of life long-term.
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