A 64-year-old Lautoka resident is concerned that people are not taking the current dry conditions seriously, saying she has already dug a well to prepare for a possible prolonged drought due to the El Nino.
Suria Kanta, who has lived in Lawaka Lautoka all her life, says many people are still waiting for rain instead of taking steps to prepare for worsening conditions.
She says crops are drying up, vegetables are being affected by whiteflies and some households are already experiencing intermittent water supply.
Kanta says she has dug a well to ensure her household has an alternative water source for planting, washing, cleaning, flushing toilets and for her plants and vegetables.
She says people living in hillside areas are particularly affected by water disruptions, which she believes is caused by low water pressure.
Kanta is encouraging families to invest in water tanks to store clean drinking water and consider alternative water sources.
Insert: We need to be prepared KK 14th oct
She says she has always prepared herself for emergencies by saving money to purchase water tanks, tools and other essential supplies.
Kanta is also encouraging households to have solar lights, lanterns and other emergency supplies ready.
She believes the dry conditions could continue for a long time and people should not wait until they run out of water before taking action.
Kanta stresses that prevention is better than cure, and people need to start preparing now rather than waiting for the situation to worsen.
