Residents within the Suva-Lami area continue to grapple with reoccurring water shortages, with some saying that the problem will persist.
The water issues affected a number of areas over the weekend with the Water Authority of Fiji revealing that the Savura Water intake was clogged by debris brought in by heavy downpours.
A team from this newspaper visited the affected areas yesterday to find out how residents have been coping with the ongoing water problems. Jone Nave, 67, a resident of Dokanaisuva, Tacirua, said the water issue has become routine for them.
“We’ve adapted to it, knowing when the water flow is normal and when to fill our buckets and pots,” Mr Nave said.
“This has been happening since I was born. Sometimes our children don’t go to school because their uniforms can’t be washed when the water supply is disrupted for a whole day or two.
Sharing similar experiences, Saula Lawa and Shalvin Haraak from Davuilevu said their area experienced inconsistent water supply over the past four years.
“I am surprised that our water bill is still similar to before the water issue started,” said Mr Lawa.
“And to make it worse, they don’t have the very best customer service whenever we call in to inquire about the matter. They keep on redirecting us from one person to another, and we hardly get the carting relief assistance because of that as well.”
Mr Haraak pleaded for government’s intervention and for a comprehensive recovery effort on water infrastructure to ensure consistent supply.
Neata Devi, a resident of Tamavua, shared her ordeal during the recent mishap with the water cut caused by the Savura water intake where she had to travel to Kinoya to collect water from relatives for daily use.
“While I understand efforts are being made, we urge the government to take measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.”
