Fiji signs contract for project to deliver continuous water supply to 98% of the greater Suva population

The Government of Fiji signed two contracts for the Rewa River Water Supply Scheme under the Fiji Urban Water Supply and Wastewater Management Investment Program. The scheme will provide the people of the greater Suva area with better access to safe, reliable water.

“The project will ensure improved health and better access to safe water supply for the population of the greater Suva area,” said Regional Director of ADB’s Pacific Subregional Office Mr. Masayuki Tachiiri. “We appreciate cofinancing by our partners—the Government of Fiji, the Green Climate Fund, and the European Investment Bank. This is the first project in the Pacific region approved by the Green Climate Fund.”

The project will increase water supply by constructing a new supply intake on the Rewa River, a water treatment plant, a pumping station, a reservoir, and a transmission main to connect the new water supply to the Water Authority of Fiji’s existing distribution system. To enhance climate resilience, the planned location of the new Rewa river scheme is located 49 kilometers from the river’s mouth to avoid the future impacts of rising sea levels that are likely to push saltwater further up river.

The Rewa River Water Supply Scheme Project is a subproject of the Multitranche Financing Facility: Fiji Urban Water Supply and Wastewater Management Investment Program, which was approved by the ADB Board of Directors in 2016. The program will further support a wastewater project in the greater Suva area.

ADB has been supporting Fiji since 1970, with $509 million in loans, $35 million in grants, and $32 million in technical assistance. ADB’s engagement in Fiji focuses on promoting inclusive economic growth and poverty reduction. These goals are being advanced through investments in transport infrastructure, water supply and sanitation, disaster recovery, and public sector management.

Original source: ADB
Published on 11 April 2019