Heavy rainfall has significantly impacted the Tamavua water system, resulting in a decline in raw water quality from the Savura intake. This situation has led to decreased treatment output and lowered reservoir levels. Seru Soderberg, the Chief Executive of the Water Authority of Fiji, highlighted that recent initiatives have focused on stabilizing the water supply while planning for long-term upgrades to enhance the system’s resilience.
Soderberg noted that dedicated teams are working tirelessly to restore reliability and improve infrastructure in order to meet the rising demands of urban areas. He acknowledged the challenges associated with reservoir recovery and maintaining a balanced system, particularly for communities situated at higher elevations.
The Viria Water Treatment Plant is currently operating at full capacity, and to bolster supply to elevated areas, a new pipeline from Sawani to Colo-I-Suva is under construction. Meanwhile, water carting continues in regions where network pressure remains insufficient.
Field teams are facing access challenges in several informal settlements due to low-hanging power lines, narrow roads, and homes located away from main thoroughfares. Residents are encouraged to place water containers at accessible roadside locations during scheduled daytime runs, enabling crews to reach more households efficiently.
The Water Authority of Fiji is dedicated to working closely with community leaders to improve communication, raise awareness around water conservation, and address mutual responsibilities in managing local infrastructure. The authority is also reviewing concerns related to the distribution of water carting services to ensure transparency and align their service delivery with operational priorities and community needs.
Overall, the ongoing initiatives by the Water Authority demonstrate a solid commitment to improving water access and infrastructure in the face of challenging weather conditions, showcasing a proactive approach to effectively serving the community. This collective effort is essential for fostering resilience against future disruptions and ensuring that residents have reliable access to water resources.