Years of requests to supply electricity to communities in southern Taveuni have gone unanswered, leaving families without reliable power supply.
Transport operator Prakash Sami said residents had repeatedly called for electricity to be extended beyond Wairiki towards the southern end of the island, but to no avail.
“For years, we’ve been trying to get in touch with the relevant ministries for the extension of power beyond Wairiki towards the southern end of the island, but nothing has happened.”
He said the lack of electricity supply was affecting students, many of whom travelled long distances to attend schools.
“Many students come to school from the southern end of the island, but their families don’t have freezers or proper lighting.”
He said the absence of electricity meant families could not safely store perishable food, forcing them to prepare meals daily and limiting their ability to preserve groceries.
“It is very difficult for parents to prepare food early in the morning because there is no proper food storage system.”
He said access to electricity was a basic service that would improve the quality of life for many families while also supporting children’s education.
“We have been asking for this for years. These communities should not continue to be left behind.”
He said residents had waited long enough for the essential service.
