The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) would like to clarify the exaggerations and blatantly incorrect information in the Fiji Times spread on 13 June 2020 regarding water disruptions in Naivikinikini settlements in Lami.
The WAF team visited the area after issues were highlighted and found that elevated parts of Naivikinikini were experiencing intermittent water supply – residents had water in the early mornings and then after 6 pm.
There were no 24/7 water cuts or pregnant women and children suffering from health issues as a result of lack of water, as insinuated by the misleading article. Neither are there long standing complaints and, in fact, only 3 complaints were made with the earliest on 20 May 2020, and the other 2 in June.
To provide immediate relief to residents living in elevated areas, we have throttled water supply from lower areas to provide a consistent water supply.
WAF ground teams continue to work to rectify the intermittent supply to the settlement, however, as of Tuesday (16/06) and residents situated in the elevated part of the settlement are satisfied with the water pressure.
Pressure tests were also conducted and recorded above 10 meters, as the Authority endeavours to provide our valued customers with at least 10 meters of headwater pressure at the outlet of the customer’s water meter, as per requirement.
WAF ground teams continue to conduct flushing and valve verifications to eliminate the possibility of trapped air within the reticulation, causing intermittent supply.
WAF urges all Fijians to practice self-reliance and to have at least 2 days worth of water stored at all times and especially as we are entering the dry season.
For water supply issues in the future, customers are requested to contact the Authority on 3346777 or shortcode 5777 (all mobile networks) or email contact@waf.com.fj