Borehole water tested locally and overseas before use, says Vosarogo

Groundwater from drilled boreholes is tested and verified in both Fiji and Australia to ensure it is safe for human consumption, Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources Filimone Vosarogo says.

Mr Vosarogo said the verification process is essential to confirm the sustainability and safety of groundwater for daily use.

He noted that surface water sources generally contain higher levels of contamination compared to groundwater.

“After each borehole is successfully drilled, groundwater samples are collected and tested in Fiji and Australia,” he said.

“The results determine whether the groundwater is safe for drinking.”

He added that not all groundwater is suitable for consumption.

“Most groundwater sources are drinkable, but some are not,” Mr Vosarogo said.

Testing has shown that some groundwater sources contain iron components.

“For groundwater with high iron content, treatment tablets are added to storage tanks to neutralise the concentration and make the water safe for consumption,” he explained.

Mr Vosarogo confirmed that groundwater in Lakeba Village in Macuata has been tested and deemed safe for drinking.

During the visit, village headman Apenisa Kolivuso requested the minister to survey for potential mineral deposits in the Lakeba area.

In response, Mr Vosarogo said geological data for most parts of the country already exists within the Mineral Resources Department.

He encouraged villagers and landowners interested in potential mineral prospects to consult the department for verification.

Mr Kolivuso said that with limited land available to the village, any confirmed mineral discovery could provide significant economic benefits to the community.