Thousands of people relying on the Tamavua Water Treatment Plant are expected to face overnight water disruptions as the Water Authority of Fiji introduces temporary water rationing from 9pm to 4am daily until further notice.
WAF says prolonged dry weather and below-average rainfall linked to El Niño conditions have reduced raw water inflows from the Savura Cascade and Headworks 3 catchments.
This has resulted in an approximately 15 percent reduction in raw water inflow and water production at the Tamavua Water Treatment Plant.
The Authority says reduced production is putting pressure on reservoir storage, making it difficult to maintain a consistent water supply, particularly in elevated areas.
WAF says controlled overnight valve operations are being implemented to restrict water supply during periods of lower demand, allowing water levels in the Tamavua Reservoir to recover and improve supply during peak daytime hours.
Residents and businesses in affected areas may experience low water pressure, intermittent supply or complete water disruptions between 9pm and 4am.
Although normal valve operations will resume from 4am, WAF warns that water supply may not return immediately, particularly in elevated areas.
Affected areas include, elevated areas of Valelevu, including Kalivetau Road, Railagi Road, Veikoba, Delaitokatoka, Nayavumata Place and Ura Place, elevated areas of Cunningham Stage 4, including Valley Drive, Caubati Koro and Upper Cakacaka Road, Mead Road and Upper Mead Road, Upper Bay View Heights, Yohan Place and Vunibau Road, Volavola Road and Lovoni Road, Cheng Place, PRB MacFarlane Road, Silimaibau Road, Upper Howell Road, Matanitobua Road, Talasiga Road and Kikau Street, Naqasima Road, Kaka Place and Kula Street, Falvey Road and Aidney Street, Uddit Narayan Road, Upper Ruve Street, Upper Samabula North, including Aiwa Street and Upper Lakeba Street, Princes Road, from Loa Street to Reservoir Road, including all feeder roads, Naboro, including Naboro Prison, Naboro Complex, Gilbertese Settlement and Naboro Dairy Farm.
WAF is urging affected families and businesses to store sufficient water before the overnight restrictions begin and to use water responsibly.
The Authority is also encouraging people to conserve water as dry weather conditions continue to affect supply.
