Inconsistent water supply affects families in Vunivere, Seaqaqa

Thirteen homes in Vunivere, Seaqaqa, Macuata have been battling inconsistent water supply for more than eight months.

They are calling the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) to intervene and hear their pleas.

Resident and sugarcane farmer Atish Kumar said the water crisis made life difficult with inconsistent water supply now a daily problem.

He produced 700 tonnes of sugarcane annually, however, felt with inability to access daily water, their farming operations also took a hit.

His family of three continues to hope and pray that WAF solve the problem.

“I have been living in the Seaqaqa area all my life and this problem have never been properly solved,” he said.

“We have been told that the borehole which sourced water for our needs was not functioning well, we call for WAF to fix this problem urgently,” he said.

Mr Kumar said students were the worst affected with meal preparation and daily preparation for school affected.

He said they engaged in rainwater harvesting and water carts supplied by WAF.

“Water carts was delivered late after so many phone calls are made for us residents”.

He said Government had to prioritise the people of Vunivere because basic water is not just a need, but, a right that is reserved for all citizens.

“While Government can do ribbon-cutting of many projects in other centres and engage in expensive trips despite the fuel crisis, they can solve our water problem,” he said.

He claimed the area advisory councillor, had failed to send timely request to WAF for intervention and believed he was not fit for the job.

Another sugarcane farmer Anand Kumar Mishra, said farmers depended on consistent water supply.

Water Authority of Fiji WAF acting manager communications/stakeholder engagement, Peni Chute, acknowledged receipt of requests from residents.

“We will look into the matter and we will revert with further information as soon as possible,” Mr Chute said.