Water Authority of Fiji chief executive officer Opetaia Ravai has explained the delay of restoring water supply to the greater Nadi area.

During a press conference at the head office in Suva yesterday, Mr Ravai also apologised to consumers. The plant that is affected is the Nagado Water Treatment Plant in Nadi.

Mr Ravai said what began as a disruption was through the damage to its filtration system on July 6.

“The timing has been significantly challenged with the introduction of a high level of algae flowing into Nagado from its source, Vaturu Dam,” he said.

“What had happened has never happened before, the combination of conditions that are required to grow algae, a harmless, miniature, but prolific type of plant similar to seaweed that has literally grown to significant proportions in the waters of the dam.”

He said that initially the filtration system was damaged by normal wear and tear but the sudden “high” influx of algae had slowed up the system and reduced the amount of treated water that could be filtered through the system.

“It is important to note that with the amount of algae growing in the dam that is flowing into the treatment plant causing the reduction in the water supply, it will take time to to clear the system.

“It could be up to two months before we can bring this unprecedented algae growth under control and return the Nagado water supply back to normal.”

This disruption has affected the greater Nadi area including Votualevu area from Tadra Road, ATS, Savunawai right up to the CAAF compound, the Holika areas, Nadele from Thompson Road up to the sleeping Giants, Lolobalavu areas and along Nadi Back Road, Solovi areas, Nasau from SSS Hotel right up to Mulomulo village and Nagado areas such as Malolo, Navo, Tunalia, Nacovi, Sonaisali, Malamala, Nawaicoba, Yako, Nabila, Fiji Marriot Momi Bay Resort, and Uciwai.

“We now have 20 trucks carting water to those affected areas as well 10,000 litre tank placed in strategic locations to allow members of the public access to water,” he said.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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