The villagers of Yasawa in Udu have waited for a year for the commissioning of their underwater ground project.
Rotary Pacific Water for Life Foundation finance manager Sanjeel Chauhan said the water committee must be trained first on the operation and maintenance of the project before it’s commissioned.
“It has been working perfectly for the past year,” Mr Chauhan said.
He said it was the committee’s duty to ensure the project is sustainable and regularly maintained.
“It is a solar-powered borehole, so the community does not have to pay for electricity bills. It’s also environmentally friendly,” Mr Chauhan said.
He said the project, which cost $45,000, has ensured that 22 households in Yasawa had access to safe, clean drinking water
“It is in line with the sustainable development goals, which is providing access to clean water and sanitation, and, of course, Fiji’s National Development plan,” he said.
While commissioning the project, Lands Minister Filimoni Vosarogo said it was not merely about installing infrastructure but empowering communities.
“Also, enhancing resilience, and fostering inclusive growth,” the minister said.
He said the ministry and organisations involved in the project were not only ensuring the village had access to clean and safe drinking water, but also laying the foundation for improved health outcomes, economic prosperity and social cohesion.
