FIJI is facing a water crisis and the Government must commit to fixing water issues experienced around the country.
In a statement by the Non-Governmental Organisation Coalition on Human Rights (NGOCHR), group chair Shamima Ali called for urgent action to address the crisis.
“For women, the water crisis is personal,” she said.
“They are responsible for finding a resource their families need to survive – for drinking, cooking, sanitation, and hygiene.
“They may stand in line and wait for water, they may walk long distances to collect water, or they may pay a lot of money to secure water.”
She said Government must recognise that women bore the greater burden of water disruptions.
“NGOCHR strongly believes the nation is facing a water crisis and the Government’s response does not reflect the urgency and gravity of the situation.
“Governments, past and present have failed to address this urgent issue, violating the rights of thousands of citizens.”
Ms Ali said immediate solutions were needed.
“We urge the Government to make a financial commitment to fix the crumbling water infrastructure nationwide, enhance water carting services, and continue subsidising household water tanks.
“We also hope that the necessary resources will be allocated in the next financial year to allow the Viria Water Treatment Plant to be operational without any further delay.
“Every household in towns, cities, rural, urban and maritime areas must have access to clean, regular main line water supply. This is a basic human right.”
