The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) wishes to advise our customers in Nadi and Lautoka, that despite the recent temporary water discolouration experienced in some regions, the water remained safe for consumption.
The issue, experienced by customers served by the Vaturu Dam, has now been resolved, and was caused by increased levels of iron in raw water received from Vaturu Dam.
The recent heavy rainfall into the dam catchment, after the long dry spell, washed sediments rich in iron to the lake. After undergoing oxidation, iron gives the water a pale brown colour.
In response to the increased iron content in the raw water, the treatment process at the Nagado Water Treatment Plant has now been updated to counter this cosmetic issue.
Once the issue was discovered, our teams quickly went in action, and discoloured water in the Nadi and Lautoka reticulation was cleared out during the weekend through extensive water sampling and water mains flushing exercises.
Our technicians are continuing to monitor the system daily, so any similar weather-triggered water quality events can be addressed.
We reiterate to our customers that tap water is safe for drinking and household needs.
We encourage our customers, if they encounter such issues, to immediately call and inform us 3346777 or shortcode 5777 (all networks) or email contact@waf.com.fj so we can send our teams to investigate and resolve the issue as soon as possible.