Opposition Member of Parliament Vijay Nath says Fiji cannot rely on water restrictions alone to address the worsening drought, calling for urgent Government intervention, increased preparedness and investment in water security.
Mr Nath expressed concern that the Government appeared to be relying heavily on water rationing and restrictions while ruling out additional funding despite warnings of worsening drought conditions.
“Water security is too important to be managed through restrictions alone,” he said.
“We cannot discipline our way out of a drought. We need preparedness, investment and decisive leadership.”
Mr Nath said while he acknowledged Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s recognition that Fiji was facing a dangerous water shortage, the Government needed to demonstrate greater urgency in responding to the crisis.
He pointed to warnings from the Fiji Meteorological Service confirming severe drought conditions in parts of the country, while the National Disaster Risk Management Office anticipated severe conditions could continue from March to May 2027.
“These warnings should serve as a wake-up call for Government,” he said.
Mr Nath called on the Government to provide a clear national drought response plan outlining immediate measures to ensure affected communities had reliable access to clean drinking water.
He also questioned why additional funding had been ruled out when the needs of affected communities could exceed existing budget allocations.
The Opposition MP sought answers on investments in water storage, boreholes, rainwater harvesting and alternative water sources, as well as assistance for rural and maritime communities.
He also raised concerns about food security and the support available to farmers and livestock owners affected by prolonged drought.
“The Government must also provide regular public updates on affected areas, water distribution schedules and the resources available to respond to the crisis,” he said.
“I wish to emphasise that water is not a privilege. It is a basic necessity for every household, school, health facility, business and farming community.”
Mr Nath said the Opposition supported responsible water conservation but stressed that restrictions needed to be accompanied by proper planning, adequate resources and practical solutions.
“We should not wait until families are forced to travel long distances or depend entirely on emergency water deliveries before taking decisive action,” he said.
“The Government’s first responsibility must be to ensure that no Fijian is left without access to safe drinking water.
“Water is life, and protecting our people’s access to it must be a national priority.”
