SUVA, Aug. 28 (Xinhua) -- The Fijian government plans to increase support for securing water supplies in remote communities, with solar-powered water pumps being prioritized under a new 2 million Fijian dollars (around 905,680 U.S. dollars) funding initiative.
The move came as Fiji prepares for the potential impacts of El Nino, with communities and farmers expected to face increasing pressure on water resources if dry conditions persist, according to local news report on Friday.
Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts Charan Jeath Singh said the ministry is identifying areas most in need of reliable water access.
He added that more funding from the new allocation could be directed towards installing solar-powered water pumps in remote areas of the country.
Singh said this initiative is aimed at providing communities with a more reliable and sustainable source of water, while reducing their vulnerability to the impacts of prolonged dry conditions.
He said the ministry is currently working to identify suitable locations where the pumps can be installed. ■