Heavy rainfall from Tropical Cyclone Rae has caused increased turbidity in the water supply systems, impacting the Water Authority of Fiji’s (WAF) capacity to operate at normal production levels at the Tamavua Water Treatment Plant (WTP). This situation has led to water disruptions for many residents in parts of Suva.
In response to the conditions, WAF has reduced the raw water inflow from 76 million liters to 66 million liters per day, a necessary measure to maintain water quality standards and manage the treatment capacity effectively. Unfortunately, this reduction has caused critically low levels in the reservoirs since last night, impacting water supply to several areas.
The affected areas include:
– **Tamavua Reservoir:** CWM Hospital, elevated areas of Lami (Kalekana, Qauia, Delainavesi, Osonabukete, Beninaiveli), and Waiqanake District, including the district school.
– **Dokanisuva Reservoir:** All areas supplied by Dokanisuva, including Princes Road from Tacirua SDA to Khalsa Road junction and residents along Nagatugatu Reservoir.
– **Colo-i-Suva Reservoir:** Including locations like Marshall Rd, Crest Chicken Ltd, and Princes Rd up to Sawani Hill.
– **Tacirua Reservoir:** Coverage runs from Princes Road to various streets in the Tacirua area.
To alleviate the situation, WAF is actively managing water supply through valve operations and will be alternating between different source supplies to control turbidity levels effectively. Additionally, 45 water carting trucks have been deployed to provide temporary relief to affected households.
The WAF has expressed regret for the inconvenience caused and is working diligently to restore production to normal levels as turbidity stabilizes. The public is advised to store sufficient water for essential needs, limit non-essential use, and ensure that stored water is kept clean and covered.
As conditions improve and production ramps back up, WAF aims to resume regular water supply services promptly. This situation highlights the importance of community preparedness and cooperation to navigate through such challenges, ensuring public health and safety remain a priority during adverse weather conditions.
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