More than 4,900 people affected by water shortages in Yasawa as Govt plans assistance

More than 4,900 people affected by water shortages in Yasawa as Govt plans assistance
More than 4,900 people across 23 villages in Yasawa are affected by water shortages, with the Government now trying to secure a vessel to transport water to the maritime communities as it also works on assistance for Batiki and Taveuni.
This comes as families in Navotua, Yasawa are facing severe water shortages after dams, wells and other usual water sources dried up due to prolonged dry weather.

Residents are relying on two old water tanks and carefully managing limited supplies, while boiling well water for drinking. Some schools are also experiencing shortages.
Villager Suliasi Waqalevu says the community has not received assistance and is calling for Government support, including water tanks. 

Minister for Rural, Maritime Development and Disaster Management Mosese Bulitavu says assessments in Yasawa have found that four of the five tikina are among the most affected by the prolonged dry weather.

These are Nacula, Naviti, Yasawa and Viwa, covering 23 villages, 1,378 households and an estimated 4,965 people.

The water shortage is also affecting essential services, including eight nursing stations, 10 primary schools, two secondary schools and two infant schools.

Bulitavu says the Ministry will now make arrangements to supply water to the affected villages based on the assessment findings.

He says the Ministry is working with the Government Shipping Service to secure a vessel to transport water to the affected maritime communities.

Privately owned barges and other suitable vessels are also being considered for the operation.

Bulitavu says if a suitable vessel is confirmed, the water supply operation could begin as early as next week.

He says the Ministry is also working on assistance for Batiki and Taveuni, where communities have reported water supply problems due to the prolonged dry conditions.

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