WAF targets illegal storm water connections in the Suva CBD

The Water Authority of Fiji says the Suva Central Business District sewer catchment has the dubious record of being the highest source of infiltration of storm water into WAF’s sewer systems.

WAF CEO, Dr Amit Chanan says their data shows that every time it rains in the Suva CBD, their sewer pumping costs go up because they have to pump illegally connected storm water that ends up filling their sewer network.

He says this is adding a significant ongoing operational cost for the Authority and they must catch those who fail to do the right thing.

Minister for Infrastructure, Jone Usamate says he was shown first-hand that many property owners along Cumming Street are illegally connected to the WAF wastewater network, which also included road drainage.

WAF has welcomed the recent announcement on the amendment of the WAF Act 2007 and with the introduction of infringement notices, WAF will be strengthening enforcement and compliance to curb these breaches to protect its assets and the environment.