Approximately $218 million will be allocated over the next three decades for upgrades and new projects aimed at enhancing water supply infrastructure in the Northern Division.
Minister for Public Works, Transport, and Meteorological Services, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, said this initiative was part of Government’s commitment to the Water Sector Strategy 2050 Plan, which aligns with the Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6) focused on water and sanitation.
Ro Filipe emphasised that more than 600 households in the Vanua Levu would benefit from these improvements.
“The major extension projects — Dagau Main Extension Project, Seaqaqa — $0.56m,” Ro Filipe outlined.
“This extension project covers 3.4 kilometre pipeline that shall benefit close to 50 households.
“On the Nabekavu to Dogoru Mains Extension Project, Labasa, costs $0.8m to cover 2.6 kilometre pipeline that will benefit approximately 30 households.
“Rural Water Supply Projects, include Kubulau Combined Scheme Project — $2.4m.
“This rural extension project covers a 26-kilometre pipeline, which is nearing completion. It will benefit close to 220 households.
“Delaivuna Combined Scheme in Taveuni — $0.9m, is now in the initial stage and will involve a 7- kilometre pipeline to benefit close to 480 households.”
With an investment of $16m, this major upgrade includes plans for a 30 mega litres per day water treatment plant and a new intake at the Matagi water source, enhancing storage at the Volanao Reservoir.
This project is expected to facilitate future network extensions into areas such as Boubale and Malau.
Ro Filipe reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to addressing the water supply needs of both urban and rural communities in the Northern Division, ensuring that residents and visitors alike have access to reliable water resources as the region continues to develop.
