A FARMER living just a stone’s throw away from the Viria Water Treatment Plant has expressed frustration over persistent water shortages that have plagued the area for more than 40 years.
Speaking to The Fiji Times on condition of anonymity, the farmer said that despite the recent developments, access to treated water remains limited for his household and several others in the region.
“We’ve had water issues for over 40 years, even though the dam was built,” he said.
“They’ve installed pipes to some houses, but there are no water meters, so we still don’t have access to treated water.”
He revealed that his family relies on well water, rainwater, and weekly deliveries of drinking water from Suva. Despite the promises of improvements, the situation remains unchanged.
“We’ve been hearing a lot of promises, but there’s been no real progress. We’re still struggling.”
A statement issued by the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) last night stated: ‘While the Viria Water Treatment Plant has been commissioned and infrastructure is in place, individual household connections are not automatic.
“Residents who need access to treated water are required to apply for a new meter connection at any WAF Customer Service Centre so that the necessary technical and administrative processes can be completed before water can be supplied to their homes.
“WAF will organise additional community engagement programs in the areas surrounding Viria to provide direct support and guidance on the application process.”
