NORTHERN communities are being urged to conserve water as below-normal rainfall conditions are expected to continue into early next year.
Acting Commissioner Northern Apolosi Lewaqai said households should prioritise water for essential needs and closely monitor local water sources.
“The public is advised to conserve and use water responsibly as below-normal rainfall conditions are expected to continue into early 2027,” he said.
Mr Lewaqai urged communities to limit non-essential water use and prioritise drinking, cooking, hygiene and other household necessities.
Residents were also advised to regularly check and repair leaking taps, tanks and pipelines.
He said communities should monitor wells, boreholes and other local water sources for declining levels.
Water sources, he said, should also be protected from contamination.
“Communities are encouraged to follow official weather forecasts and water conservation advisories.”
He urged residents to report emerging water shortages to district offices, the Water Authority of Fiji and other relevant authorities.
Community water committees also had an important role to play in managing supplies.
He said committees should help promote conservation, monitor local water systems and liaise with the government agencies when problems emerged.
He said the Government would continue monitoring the dry conditions and working with communities and stakeholders.
“The Government will continue to monitor the situation closely and work with communities and stakeholders to minimise the impacts of prolonged dry conditions.”
The advice comes as six monitored water sources in the Northern Division have already reached critical levels.
