Following concerns raised by the women of Dramasi where some have to wake up as early as two in the morning to fetch water, the Water Authority of Fiji says they intend to submit a proposal under the Fiji Government's Public Sector Investment Programme for the design and construction of a water supply extension network for the Dramasi community.
While responding to questions by fijivillage News, WAF says they remain committed to identifying sustainable solutions to improve water access in the area.
They say Dramasi is a rural settlement located approximately 6.8 kilometres from Tavua and is currently served through alternative sources such as boreholes, rainwater harvesting, wells, and WAF water carting services, particularly during dry periods.
The Authority says extending a permanent water supply to Dramasi presents significant engineering challenges due to the area's elevation and the limitations of the existing water infrastructure.
They say the current network does not have sufficient hydraulic capacity to supply elevated sections of the community, and substantial upgrades to reservoirs, pipelines and associated infrastructure would be required.
WAF says any future implementation will be subject to funding approval and national infrastructure prioritisation processes.
They say in the meantime, WAF will continue providing water carting assistance and working closely with affected communities while pursuing long-term solutions.
WAF adds they remain committed to improving water service delivery and ensuring reliable access to safe drinking water for all Fijians.
Meanwhile, Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau says information will have to come through the mechanisms available up to the Commissioners office to ensure that resources are mobilized and WAF and NDRMO supply water.
