SOLOMON Water has urged customers in four towns to conserve water after the onset of El Nino which can raise the risk of prolonged dry conditions and possible water shortages.
If water levels continue to decline in Honiara, Auki, Noro, and Tulagi, temporary water rationing may be introduced to ensure essential supplies remain available.
Noro—site of the Solomon Islands’ largest tuna cannery and a critical component of the national economy—may receive special treatment from authorities.
Solomons Water’s Acting Chief Executive Officer Ray Anderson said water stocks and weather patterns would be monitored closely
“Should water levels decline, we may need to introduce temporary water rationing measures to manage available supplies responsibly and maintain essential water services for all customers,” Anderson said.
El Niño typically brings below-average rainfall and extended dry weather, reducing the amount of water available for domestic and commercial use.
Solomon Water said it increased maintenance of key water infrastructure.
The utility is also working with the Government’s Drought Advisory Group and other agencies to prepare for the potential impacts of the weather event.
Customers have been encouraged to reduce unnecessary water to help safeguard supplies.
“Conserving water is a shared responsibility, and every household, business and institution can play a part in protecting our limited water resources during prolonged dry conditions,” Anderson said.
