The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) has implemented the Water Tank Subsidy Scheme to enhance water security and build resilience among its metered customers living in areas with intermittent water supply.
Today (29/07), Minister Fiji Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport, Hon. Ro Filipe Tuisawau together with WAF officials handed over a total of four (4) new 1,000-litre water tanks to successful applicants of Sakoca in Tacirua.
“Sakoca is an area that has encountered water supply issues for some time because of a couple of reasons, firstly the elevation of this area, whenever the reservoir levels reduce, you’d be the first to experience water issues. Factors like non-revenue water losses due to pipe leaks, ageing infrastructure and population growth leading to increased demand for water outstripping current supply capacity contributes to the current intermittent water supply experience along the Suva ridge,” said Hon. Tuisawau.
“Our WAF team is currently implementing a long-term solution project to extend the Viria Water Supply System coverage by laying and connecting a pipeline from Sawani to Colo-i-Suva and constructing a pump station and a reservoir to supply water towards Tacirua and Tamavua to alleviate the current intermittent water supply along the Suva ridge. The project will be completed within the next two years,” added Hon. Tuisawau
The Water Tank Subsidy Scheme was allocated $2 million by the Fiji Government in the 2023/2024 National Budget. Customers residing in metered intermittent supply areas who meet the criteria can apply at any WAF customer centre or via the WAF website and mobile app.
The Water Tank Subsidy Scheme represents a proactive step towards addressing the water supply challenges faced by many Fijians. By promoting the installation of water tanks, WAF aims to foster a more resilient water supply system in Fiji ensuring that communities are better prepared to withstand water shortages and service disruptions in the future.
“With water being a basic human right, the Fiji Government together with the Water Authority of Fiji continues to assist citizens, and that is the sole reason we are here today to give a new water tank to assist you and your family to be resilient and have additional water storage – if the WAF service is interrupted, having this water tank as a backup will assist you until relief comes or as supply is normalised,” Hon. Tuisawau explained.
“I must thank you for taking advantage of this Water Tank scheme for Urban Areas – the Government is working to address water issues and this is part of that progress and we journey towards that plan of ensuring everyone has adequate water supply.”