Around 6,000 people in Ba are expected to benefit from improved water security following the completion of the new roof structure at the Valele Reservoir.

The $700,000-plus project, delivered by the Water Authority of Fiji, was officially commissioned today by Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, Hon. Ro Filipe Tuisawau.

Serving communities from Yalalevu to Navau, the reservoir is a key part of the region’s water supply network.

The newly completed roof will help protect treated water from dust, debris, insects and other contaminants, ensuring safer and more reliable drinking water for residents.

The upgrade replaces infrastructure that was severely damaged during Tropical Cyclone Winston in 2016, when the reservoir roof collapsed and left the facility exposed.

While temporary measures allowed the reservoir to continue operating, a permanent solution was needed to safeguard water quality and strengthen long-term service reliability.

Speaking at the commissioning, Minister Tuisawau said the project reflects the Government’s commitment to improving essential infrastructure and ensuring communities continue to have access to safe drinking water, particularly as climate-related events become more frequent.

The project supports the goals of the National Development Plan 2025–2029, Vision 2050 and the Water Sector Strategy 2050, which focus on building resilience, strengthening water security and improving access to essential services across Fiji.