Hundreds of families in Khalsa Rd, Suva, are urging the Government to address ongoing water issues that have plagued them for nearly two years. Residents report that the situation has worsened significantly this year, with no apparent efforts made to rectify it.
Titilia Kete, a 59-year-old resident of Naidiri Settlement for the past 30 years, expressed how the water shortages have severely disrupted their daily routines. “Since Friday, we have had no water,” Ms. Kete stated. She noted that while adults are managing, it has become increasingly challenging to send children to school. “Our clothes are piling up, the toilets are unpleasant, and it is affecting our health. Earlier this week, our children suffered from stomach issues.”
Ms. Kete mentioned that her household, which includes 11 people, has been missing out on showers. “We have to conserve water for drinking, cooking, and using the washroom.”
Another resident, 55-year-old Timaima Vosataki, echoed similar concerns, particularly about the wellbeing of children. “I’m worried about our children’s health. Clothes are piling up, and we’re waiting for the water supply to be restored so we can clean our homes.”
Nisha, 53, shared that her children have missed school due to the lack of water. “Their clothes are dirty, and we can’t wash them,” she said, highlighting that water comes early in the morning when no one is awake. “Who will wake up that early to do the washing?” She added they have become reliant on rainwater, which is nearly depleted. “What little is left is reserved for cooking. I don’t know how we will manage to shower.”
In response, the Water Authority of Fiji urged residents on Wednesday to stock up on water whenever it is available, advising that they should have enough to last for at least two to three days. The WAF also assured residents that they would monitor the situation and take necessary precautions to minimize the impact.