Families in Tovata, Makoi, are struggling without water following a burst water main, with some students missing school and residents facing difficulties preparing for Navratri celebrations, as the Water Authority of Fiji carries out repairs.
A resident says the disruption has been particularly challenging for families observing Navratri, as water is needed for household prayers, preparing food, and hosting visitors.
The resident says students have also been affected, with some unable to attend school due to the lack of water, while a funeral in the community has added to the challenges faced by families.
They say the water supply was still disrupted after they first noticed the issue early in the morning and are concerned about recurring water cuts in the area.
The resident says they contacted the Water Authority of Fiji at around 8.30am and were told other residents had been calling since 6am to report the issue.
They say they called again at around 9.30am but were informed that WAF was still trying to establish the cause of the disruption.
The resident claims several water pipes had burst along the road, which they believe caused the interruption to the supply.
They say the customer care line remained busy until around midday, when a representative informed them that a WAF team would attend to the matter, with water expected to be restored by 4pm.
The resident says this is not the first time residents have experienced water disruptions, saying burst pipes and leakages have occurred repeatedly in the area.
They are calling for water pipes to be installed at a lower level where possible and for regular checks to identify and repair leakages before they cause widespread disruptions.
The resident says unexpected water cuts make it difficult for people to manage their daily responsibilities and is calling for a more reliable water supply and timely communication from WAF.
Meanwhile, WAF has confirmed that a burst water main line has disrupted supply to Tovata, Makoi and Kalabu.
WAF says the disruption was scheduled from 10.30am to 3pm, with repairs and maintenance expected to be completed by 3.30pm, followed by gradual restoration of water supply.