Residents of Savusavu are raising serious concerns about the town not having a sewerage system, with some pointing to a 20-year delay in addressing the issue.
This was raised by Savusavu resident Aren Nunnink during the Fijian Media Association's Meet the Public and the Press session held in Savusavu.
He says the problem was first highlighted by former MP Robin Irwin, who secured support from the European Union and even sourced sewerage pipes in anticipation of a proper system being developed.
However, the project stalled after local objections to a proposed treatment plant in Naqere.
Nunnink says the absence of a sewerage scheme has led to high E.coli levels in the area.
Responding to the concerns, Water Authority of Fiji Acting Regional Operations Manager for the North, Anare Luveniyali confirmed that the World Bank is now working with the Ministry of Tourism on a wastewater project for Savusavu.
He says a site around Savudrodro is currently being considered.
Assistant Minister for Public Works, Transport and Meteorological Services, Naisa Tuinaceva has also assured residents that a plan is in place to address the long-standing issue.
Click here for more stories from the FMA meet the public and press sessions in Savusavu and Labasa
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