Residents of Lau are expressing their distress over the ongoing water supply issues plaguing the islands. This pressing concern was brought to light during the National Rural Development Plan consultation held for the Eastern Division.
Safaira Tagivuni, the representative for Lau, reported that the islands are grappling with significant water shortages. She emphasized the need for support in developing technologies to purify salt water for safe consumption. Tagivuni referenced a successful initiative in Navatu, advocating for a similar infrastructure to be implemented in Lau. “We have a lot of sea water, and our only option is to develop infrastructure to help purify it just like that was done in Navatu. That would help a lot on the island,” she stated.
The scarcity of clean water is impacting the community beyond mere consumption; it is affecting cooking, hygiene, and other essential daily activities. With these challenges in mind, residents are calling on the government and relevant agencies to address the situation by providing long-term solutions. They seek the establishment of proper water infrastructure and sustainable purification systems to ensure that residents have access to safe and reliable drinking water.
The concerns raised by the Lau community highlight an urgent need for action that could lead to improved quality of life. By implementing effective solutions to their ongoing water issues, the residents of Lau can hope for a more sustainable and healthier future.