Landslide causes water supply disruption in greater Suva-Nasinu area, FIji

The greater Suva-Nasinu area is experiencing water disruptions after a massive landslide at the inlet to the Wainibuku Reservoir on May 2 dislocated pipelines. Although water is being progressively restored, repairs and recovery are still ongoing and will continue for some time. The cause of the landslide is heavy rain. 

The Water Authority of Fiji (WAF) said the approximate length of dislocated pipelines is 40 m (131 feet).

"Based on our initial assessments, which were conducted because of the landslide, we can see that there are no faults on the pipes themselves. However, the force of the landslide has pushed apart or dislocated our pipework, causing significant damage which will take some time to safely repair," WAF chief operating office Mr. Soderberg said.

Image credit: WAF

Image credit: WAF

Image credit: WAF​

Soderberg said WAF engineers will first stabilize the site before repairs can commence.

"Our approach at the moment is to conduct repairs to the 450 mm main. The bigger challenge for us, however, is in regards to the 600 mm, as landslide has made the site unstable. Our teams are currently mobilizing to bring the needed materials to the repair site," Soderberg said.

"We kindly request our customers to please bear with us while these critical repairs are being carried out, as the fault is beyond WAF’s control, and we reassure you that we are doing what we can as urgently as possible."

Water carting trucks have been deployed to provide water to our affected customers during this time.

Featured image credit: WAF