IT will take the Government another 25 years and a staggering $8.7billion to fix the crumbling, decades-old water pipes that continue to cause water supply disruptions.
Infrastructure Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau said a water plan 2050 had been formulated, which provided the Government with a roadmap to deal with the water issues the country faces.
“Our water infrastructure, including pipes and treatment facilities, needs urgent upgrading to ensure safe, adequate and efficient water services for all Fijians,” he said.
Ro Filipe said the plan was designed to assess water needs nationwide and outline the infrastructure required to meet future demands, particularly in the face of climate change.
“It assesses all the water needs in Viti Levu and Vanua Levu, as well as other maritime areas. It also includes information on what sort of infrastructure is needed in these areas.
“Not only that, when you know the amount, you will know the strategies of financing.”
Ro Filipe said the cost of the plan would be financed through concessional loans, grants and the national budget.
“Some of these funds will be locally acquired, while others will be from international development partners.
“We are also looking into climate finance mechanisms like the Global Environment Fund and the Green Climate Fund to support resilient water infrastructure.”
Ro Filipe said he has spoken with the relevant authority about stepping up their game in ensuring the people receive safe, adequate, and efficient water services.
