The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) continues to work to eliminate discolored water to customers and residents in parts Nadi and Lautoka.
WAF had detected an increase of Iron (Fe) and Manganese (Mn) levels at the Nagado Water Treatment Plant from raw water sourced from the Vaturu Dam, this is due to sudden changes in climatic conditions resulting in low dissolved oxygen levels at the Dam.
WAF General Manager Customer Services, Sekove Uluinayau said that the Authority was able to reduce the levels of iron and manganese at Vaturu and Nagado through consistent aeration.
“WAF had installed aeration systems to pump in oxygen to decrease the levels of iron and manganese at the water source in the Vaturu Dam and at the Nagado Water Treatment Plant’s inlet chamber where we are also applying pre and post-chlorination at the plant as well as regular flushing of the reticulation system,” explained Mr Uluinayau.
Mr Uluinayau said that the oxidation reactions of iron and manganese had caused the water in the Nadi and Lautoka water system which is fed from the Nagado Water Treatment Plant to appear discolored (pale to brownish).
The Fiji National Drinking Water Quality Standards which is 0.3 mg/l (milligram/ litre) for Iron (Fe) and 0.1 mg/l for Manganese (Mn).
“The latest laboratory results on water samples tested at Nagado for Iron (Fe) levels at is 0.18 mg/L and for Manganese, levels are 0.06 mg/L,” explained Mr Uluinayau.
“For residents in the whole Lautoka and parts of Nadi, water appearance in taps has improved and should no longer be discolored. Our crew members are currently working to flushing out all wash-out valves and fire hydrants to remove all discolored water in the extreme end of the Nadi reticulation system,” said Mr Uluinayau.
Mr Uluinayau said that WAF is committed to improving water supply around the country and apologizes for the inconvenience caused.
Meanwhile, customers around Nadi and Lautoka are to contact the Water Authority of Fiji on 5777 or 334 6777 or email contact@waf.com.fj if they continue to receive discolored water in their taps.