In 2016, technical challenges hampered the $2.6 million Rara Reservoir from delivering water to residents in Labasa as originally planned. This delay resulted in communities in Vatudova, Tabia, and neighboring areas lacking reliable water access for several years.
According to the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF), assessments revealed that the existing bulk inlet mains supplying the reservoir had capacity limitations that could compromise water pressure and supply reliability, especially for customers in higher elevations. This led WAF to refrain from fully operationalizing the reservoir until the bulk supply system could be upgraded.
The WAF emphasized that the reservoir was never abandoned but is integral to a carefully staged infrastructure development plan aimed at ensuring long-term water supply reliability, resilience, and accommodating future network expansion for the greater Labasa area. Following a thorough review, WAF determined that establishing a new dedicated inlet main from Benau to Rara was essential to overcoming hydraulic challenges and extending water supply to areas that were previously underserved.
The broader strategy includes plans for an additional reservoir in Vatudova to enhance water supply resilience further. Residents who have been waiting for a dependable water service can expect progress soon, as WAF acknowledged the frustrations caused by the delays. The authority assured that with the completion of the necessary upgrades, the reservoir would operate sustainably and effectively.
As part of this long-term plan, the Benau to Rara and Volanau Reservoir Bulk Mains Upgrade Project has been awarded to Sinohydro Corporation Ltd. This project entails upgrading the bulk mains from the Benau Water Treatment Plant to the Rara and Volanau reservoirs through the installation of new dedicated pipelines. Key components of the project include laying approximately 2.7 kilometers of DN300 mPVC/HDPE pipeline from the treatment plant to the reservoir and about 5.5 kilometers of DN375/DN400 mPVC/HDPE pipeline to the Vaturekuka junction. Additionally, three major river crossings will be constructed using DN315/DN400 HDPE pipelines, along with the installation of necessary valves, washouts, and chambers.
WAF confirmed that the contract has been executed, preliminary works and stakeholder engagements have been completed, and procurement for pipes and fittings is in progress. Construction equipment has been mobilized, and hydrostatic testing of installed sections is already underway. The project is anticipated to kick off in early April 2026, with an expected completion date by the end of that year. Once the bulk mains upgrade is finalized, the Rara Reservoir will be fully integrated into the water supply network.
This initiative forms part of a significant infrastructure investment by the Government of Fiji, emphasizing the Benau-Rara pipeline works. Concurrently, WAF is also advancing plans to renovate the Benau Water Treatment Plant during the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 fiscal years. These improvements aim to enhance treatment capacity, boost overall system performance, and expand water supply services to communities that currently depend on water carting.
Providing reliable water access, improving storage capacity, and reducing dependence on carting remain central priorities for WAF. The commitment to long-term solutions and collaboration with stakeholders underscores WAF’s dedication to enhancing water infrastructure throughout Labasa and across Fiji, bringing hope to communities in need.