‘High infiltration main cause of sewer overflow’
ILLEGAL stormwater connections into the sewerage system, and high infiltration of stormwater entering the sewerage network is the main cause of sewer overflow from a chamber in Vatuwaqa creek in Wailea Settlement, Suva, says Water Authority of Fiji (WAF).
WAF’s comments came in response to the concern raised by the residents of Wailea Settlement in Vatuwaqa, Suva that sewer overflow during heavy rain from the chamber in the creek that runs in-between Raiwaqa and Vatuwaqa was affecting many residents residing in the area.
“WAF wastewater team is aware of the issue,” WAF public relations and communications officer Peni Mitchell Shute said.
“All sewer systems are designed to have overflow discharge into stormwater or natural waterways in the event of system blockage and/or during exceedance of carrying capacity.
“On this occasion, the overflow into the nearby creek occurred due to high inflow from illegal stormwater connections into the sewer system, and high infiltration of stormwater entering the sewer network due to wet weather.”
He said WAF was aware of illegal stormwater connections discharging into the sewerage system and was awaiting the drafting of necessary regulations by the Office of the Solicitor-General.
“Once drafted the powers will allow WAF to fine illegal connections putting extra load on our sewer system.
“WAF has implemented an inflow & infiltration (I&I) reduction plan.
“This involves verification works as well as capital works scoping and planning of Suva Sewer Catchments (Suva City Suburbs).
“The authority is also carrying out smoke tests to identify potential stormwater infiltration into WAF’s sewer line.”
Mr Shute said WAF had carried out and would continue to increase community awareness sessions on this important topic.
“We urge all residents, not just those in Wailea, to ensure that rain guttering and drain outlets are not illegally connected to the wastewater lines.”