Relief at last for Cikobia Islanders on Vanua Levu as 250,000 litres of water were shipped to them on Saturday from Suva.

The island has been facing water shortage for some time because of ongoing dry spell.

Islanders had resorted to drinking coconut water among other sources to sustain daily water needs.

Government said on Saturday that two ships would cart water to Cikobia and the Yasawa Group in the Western Division.

Government vessel MV Vunilagi is expected to berth on the island today after it was scheduled to to load more water at Port Malau.

“The crew of two government vessels, MV Vatulawa, and MV Vunilagi, are getting ready to depart with 440,000 litres of water which is a lifeline for members of affected communities,” the Govt statement said.

“The MV Vatulawa will carry 190,000 litres of water and distribute them to islands in the Western Division including Vatulele, the Malolo and Yasawa group of islands.

“The ship can refill at the Port of Lautoka to ensure that the islands’ water needs are met.”

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