ABOUT 240 villagers from Yavuna, Nadi, have a new ground water source to address their water supply needs.

The Yavuna Ground water project was commissioned on Friday afternoon by Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Faiyaz Koya who said the project marked a new engineering feat for the Mineral Resources Department.

“The technical field officers of the department continue to be innovative and re-engineered processes and operations,” he said.

“This is the first time ever for the pipes to be laid over the Mosi Creek to deliver water to villagers on the other side of the creek.”

He said the project cost more than $67,700.

The minister added that the groundwater source should not be the primary source of water for the villagers.

“However, let us continue to use other reliable and safe water sources, for example rainfall harvesting which should not be neglected and should actually be maintained to actually supplement the groundwater.

“Ground water should be used prudently and should not be used as the ultimate water source to solve all water problems and should be protected from any kind of activity and from any source of contamination,” Mr Koya said.

“I strongly advise that the villagers strictly follow the recommended pumping rate and pump durations because if you fail to comply with that it could lead to unsustainable yield and possible degradation of the water quality.

“The Government will not tire of our responsibility to deliver to you the best of that which can be provided and as citizens of Fiji you too have certain responsibilities to uphold the commitment towards the wellbeing of ordinary Fijians.”