WHY CONSERVATION OF WATER IS VITAL
CHEAP WATER RATES NOT AN EXCUSE TO WASTE WATER The recommended amount of water a human should consume in an entire day is two litres – eight glasses of water.
Water is the source of all life. Without it, Fijians would be unable to carry out basic daily activities and earn a living - and of course, life would cease to exist.
The right to safe and clean drinking water is guaranteed in the 2013 Fijian Constitution – a right that the Fijian Government supports by ensuring that Fiji has some of the lowest water rates in the world – a mere 15 cents per 1000 litres.
Unfortunately, cheap water rates mean many Fijians do not bother saving water and use it without any regard to the real dangers we face during droughts caused by climate change.
In Fiji, water scarcity is a bleak reality for some. While the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) has continued to dedicate its efforts to ensure the distribution and accessibility of the highest standard of water to some 800,000 Fijians across the nation.
They have also made advancements to raise social awareness of the necessity of water. Which brings us to the much-needed discussion on the importance of water conservation in Fiji. As every year rolls into the somewhat unstable cyclone season, we seem unwilling to learn from the mistakes we make in that regard. We do things like keep tap water running, we do not reuse wastewater to water our lawn, we are not vigilant when it comes to checking leaks in our pipes, to name a few bad habits. Yet, there are numerous ways in which you can begin to save water within your daily routines, without too much inconvenience. For example, it can be something as simple as turning off your taps when brushing your teeth. Anytime you leave a tap running for even the smallest reason, you have the potential to waste up to nine litres per minute.
The recommended amount of water a human should consume in an entire day is two litres – eight glasses of water.
Chief executive Omundson
The newly appointed chief executive officer of WAF, Barry Omundson, strongly believes in the importance of providing Fijians with access to clean and safe water and is dedicated to achieving this.
“Water is an essential resource for many industries and families,” Mr Omundson said.
“This is why, over the next few years, we will undertake major investments to cater for long-term water supply needs. These investments will be made to renew existing water infrastructure, including pipeline replacement in our 4313-kilometre pipe network.”
WAF’s area of operation
WAF’s area of operation currently covers 18,274 square-metres and continues to expand, to reach more than 800,000 Fijians nationwide.
Over the past five years, WAF has made steady progress in transforming into an innovative utility provider through the adoption of international practices and access to improved technology and equipment.
While WAF is looking to expand access to water and wastewater reticulation systems, they are also looking to develop potential new water sources. All in an effort to further conserve our country’s water supply.
The implementation of the Rural Water Supply Programme ensures the provision of safe drinking water to villages, settlements, schools and health facilities. In addition, the Government’s subsidy for rainwater harvesting systems funds a 70 per cent aid for rainwater systems in areas affected by intermittent water supply.
Without a constant, clean and reliable water supply, our lives would become much, much harder – life would be closer to the dark ages than anything else.
That is why we are so lucky to constantly get clean drinking water at a very affordable rate.
With the right attitude and mindset, we can conserve our water and improve the lives of every Fijian.