Solomon Water has issued a public notice informing its valued customers about the closure of two major water sources, Kombito and Kongulai, until further notice. The decision comes as a response to the high turbidity levels caused by heavy rains in the respective areas.
Honiara has been experiencing rainfall since Sunday afternoon, with the forecast indicating rain showers and isolated thunderstorms, occasionally heavy. Despite the ongoing rainfall, weather warnings remain nil.
Turbidity, which measures the cloudiness of water in surface water sources, has been exacerbated by silt, mud, algae, and other particles, rendering the water unsafe for consumption and daily use. Solomon Water emphasizes that the suspension of water supply is crucial to prevent the distribution of potentially hazardous water to its customers.
The closure affects residents in various areas, including April Valley, Gilbert Camp, Panatina Village, KGVI Heights, Burns Creek, Betikama, Henderson, and Don Bosco, among others. Customers in these areas may experience either no water or low water pressure until further notice.
Furthermore, the shutdown of water supply from Kongulai impacts the water production systems at Tasahe, Skyline, Titinge, West Kola Ridge, and East Kola Ridge, leading to reduced water pressure in West Honiara, Central Honiara, and parts of East Honiara. The Kongulai water source supplies water to 40 percent of Honiara, which includes the whole of west Honiara, and parts of central and east Honiara. More importantly, due to its elevated location, Kongulai plays a critical role in pressurizing 60 percent of the supply network.
Solomon Water assures customers that it is actively monitoring the turbidity levels at the affected sources and pledges to keep them informed of any developments. Customers are encouraged to contact the Customer Care Service at 44700 for further information.
Source: Solomon Water