Many families should expect another day without water as unstable ground has slowed repairs to the damaged Tamavua-i-Wai trunk main, which are now expected to be completed by midday today.
The Water Authority of Fiji says repairs to the burst 375mm trunk main at Tamavua-i-Wai have been significantly delayed because of extremely difficult conditions at the worksite.
WAF says the damaged pipe is about three metres underground, where a high-water table and waterlogged soil have made the ground unstable and caused the trench to repeatedly collapse.
The Authority says its crews worked through most of the night widening and stabilising the trench so the repair team could safely reach the damaged pipe, stressing that the safety of workers remains the priority.
WAF had earlier expected the repair to be completed by yesterday evening.
The Authority has apologised to residents for the extended disruption and the inconvenience caused.
Meanwhile, water carting is continuing, with priority being given to schools, health facilities, other essential services and communities along the affected Lami corridor.
WAF is thanking affected residents for their patience as crews continue working to restore normal water supply as quickly and safely as possible.
