The Tamavua Water Treatment Plant is currently facing operational challenges as it was originally designed to handle 60 million liters per day (MLD) but is now required to operate at 75 MLD to fulfill the increasing demand from the Suva-Nausori corridor. This situation has been exacerbated by high turbidity levels in the water source, particularly during heavy rainfall events. Minister for Infrastructure Ro Filipe Tuisawau visited the plant and was briefed on how these elevated turbidity levels have led to inconsistent water supply for thousands of residents.
WAF officials reported that the high turbidity, resulting from increased sediment and organic matter, complicates the treatment process. This not only leads to the need for higher chemical dosages but also creates frequent blockages in the intake systems, which further disrupts water flow and reduces overall production. This has prompted the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) to formulate a comprehensive strategy to enhance the resilience of the water supply system, which includes short, medium, and long-term measures.
The context of these issues is reminiscent of recent improvements in water quality and production levels noted by WAF officials. Areas impacted by high turbidity, like parts of the Suva-Nausori corridor, have seen fluctuating water availability due to heavy rainfall, and past efforts are being intensified to manage these situations better. WAF is actively executing projects to connect various water systems and upgrading facilities to bolster capacity and reliability.
Future infrastructure improvements are on the horizon, notably a planned upgrade to the Tamavua facility and the construction of a new water treatment plant designed to add 40 MLD to the system. These measures, backed by government support, aim to alleviate the longstanding water supply issues and enhance service delivery during critical weather events.
This proactive approach, combined with community preparedness, illuminates a hopeful path towards ensuring a stable water supply for all residents impacted by the recent challenges. The ongoing enhancements to infrastructure will not only address immediate concerns but also reinforce a sustainable long-term solution for water management in the region.
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