Villages in the Western Division are facing water shortages as a result of prolonged dry spell.
And as a result, the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management through the office of the Commissioner Western Division has commenced with emergency water carting.
The villages in Malolo, Yaro and Solevu, including the Solevu Health Centre were supplied with 100,000 litres of water last week.
Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Inia Seruiratu said the government was committed to ensuring that all Fijians had adequate access to clean and safe drinking water.
Commissioner Western Mesake Ledua said the supply of emergency water would continue this week to the remaining villages of Yanuya and Tavua in Malolo and to the island of Vatulele.
He said a team in the West was also currently monitoring the situation in Yasawa.
“The barge has returned from Solevu and Yaro Village and will depart for Yanuya Village and Tavua Village on Monday before going to Vatulele Island,” he said.
“We are also anticipating the same for the five tikina in the Yasawa Group and we stand ready to assist as well.
“These stock of emergency water is expected to sustain these communities for the next three months.
“Approximately more than 5000 people will benefit from the supply of emergency water.”
