Relocated residents from Kilikali in Nepani, to the Veiraisi Settlement in Nadera, will need to apply for their water meters to be connected or to have a new water meter installed.

That was the advice from the Water Authority of Fiji’s chief executive officer, Opetaia Ravai, who was responding to concerns raised by some of the new residents at Veiraisi Settlement.

About 45 families, who were relocated to Nadera, said they were still waiting for proper installation of water and electricity.

One resident, Pasepa Tuifagalele, said three months ago they were told to relocate with a promise, from the relevant authorities that the new location already had proper piped water and electricity.

“We had to ask those settled in this area for water. We have resorted to constructing pit toilets that most of us are using right now,” she said.

Mr Ravai said: “I have received confirmation from the supervisor responsible for the project, that they have transferred most of the water meters from Kilikali Settlement, Laqere Bridge, as well as the Qarase roundabout, to the new Veiraisi line.

“This was done only for residents who had existing water meters while in Kilikali.

“Unfortunately, those without existing water meters will need to follow the procedure and apply to the authority like every other customer.”

The Permanent Secretary for Local Government, Joshua Wycliffe, said they supported the relocation, but the installation of water and electricity would be dealt with by relevant authorities.

Mr Ravai confirmed the water piping works at Veiraisi Settlement was installed last November, which was opened after the construction period.

“The works included the extension of the water main to the vicinity in order to allow residents in the area to have their meters connected in their compounds,” he said.

“A 12-men crew laid approximately 600 metres of 100mm PVC water pipes, making the new meter connections possible in four short weeks.”

The Authority has also installed two fire hydrants.

“The only thing left to be done is for residents to apply for their water meters to be connected or to have a new water meter installed,” Mr Ravai said.

“The authority is committed to provide clean drinking water to all Fijians, and water carting has been in place to provide clean drinking water to unmetered customers in the Veiraisi area.

Storage tanks for water should be kept clean.”

As for power, Fiji Electricity Authority (FEA) chief executive officer, Hasmukh Patel, said they had issued a budgetary cost estimate to the Director of Housing at the Ministry of Local Government, Urban Development, Housing and Environment for the temporary supply of electricity to the residents of Veiraisi Settlement at Nadera.

“An approved scheme plan is required to finalise the cost and issue a firm quotation to the ministry.

“Upon receipt of payment based on the firm quotation, FEA can commence construction on the electricity supply infrastructure in Veiraisi settlement,” Mr Patel said.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

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