The multi-million upgrades this year are part of a bigger plan to boost national water supply
Josua Tuwere
suva
The Government has allocated $130 million for water distribution upgrading projects in its 2014 National Budget.As part of the implementation processs the Water Authority is leading the way to overhaul an antiquated system suffering from neglect. The WAF website provides updated information on the status of their current projects for 2014.
Below are some of the highlights from their updates.
n Water distribution system upgrades affecting Rara and Veisari reservoirs in Suva
n Relocation of existing water and waste water pipeline Fiji Roads Authority road works. This will be part of the Suva and Nadi major road upgrades.
n Upgrading of waste water treatment plant specifically for Navakai and Kinoya Treatment plans
Speaking at the World Water Day celebrations last week , the Minister for Public Utilities, Captain (Navy) Timoci Natuva said the Government is also in the process of implementing its revised National Energy policy to address the country’s energy and water demand and supply. Captain Natuva said water and energy were also important for Fiji’s national security agenda as a small island nation.
“Given the importance of water and energy to the country’s national development and its national security, the Government will ensure that the legal and regulatory frameworks for both resources are put in place,” he said.
“This is to ensure their sustainability, usage and their preservation.”
He thanked all the development partners and NGOs for supporting the Government financially and aiding Fiji’s supply needs. “To facilitate this process and in terms of addressing the people’s demand for water and energy supply, the Government looks to non-governmental agencies and development partners, to assist in our work.” At the moment water cuts in the Suva-Nausori corridor currently affect about 95,000 people. However, the WAF plans to providing access to quality drinking water and waste water services to over 144,000 residential and non-residential metered customers reaching over 700,000 people nationwide.
Feedback: josuat@fijisun.com.fj