Residents of Ellington Settlement in Rakiraki are calling for an extension of water pipes to their community, saying their access to clean and safe drinking water is repeatedly affected during periods of heavy rain and flooding.
The residents told fijivillage News that the existing water supply from the river dam is vulnerable during adverse weather, with pipes damaged or washed away when heavy rain and flooding occur.
They say this leaves families without reliable access to safe drinking water, with children and elderly people among those most affected.
They say water stored in tanks can also become contaminated during heavy rain, creating further concerns about the safety of the water available to households.
The residents say the issue has been affecting the community for several years and is particularly challenging during periods of bad weather.
Residents are requesting the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) to extend its water network from the Rarapatu area towards Ellington Settlement, linking from the Duadua and Wananavu Resort junction.
The residents are now calling WAF to consider their request and take the necessary steps to extend the water network to Ellington Settlement.
They say access to a reliable supply of clean water would make a significant difference to the health and well-being of families in the community.
Meanwhile, WAF have confirmed that they are looking into the matter.
