Solomon Water is investing USD10 million in a long term plan to replace pipes that are leaking and strengthen its network.
In a statement issued over the weekend, the country’s main water provider said, “Solomon Water is committed to providing safe, reliable, and sustainable water services to the communities we serve.”
To ensure that all customers receive fair and equitable access to water, Solomon Water is now addressing the issue of illegal connections, which significantly impact their ability to deliver quality services.
The statement said, illegal connections contribute to high water losses (Non-Revenue Water), affecting supply reliability and increasing operational costs.
These losses, caused by leaks, metering inaccuracies, and unauthorized connections, reduce the amount of water available to paying customers, the statement added.
“To improve our services, Solomon Water is investing USD 10 million in a long-term pipe replacement plan to reduce leaks and strengthen the network.
“Additionally, a USD 3 million prepaid water meter rollout will help address metering accuracy, ensuring customers have better control over their water usage and spending,” the Statement said.
As part of its efforts to protect water resources and provide fair access to all, they are urging those with unauthorized connections to visit their Customer Service team at BJS Office to register for a legal connection.
“We understand that every customer’s situation is different, and for those facing financial challenges, we are ready to discuss tailored payment plans to help manage outstanding arrears.
“Solomon Water is not here to penalize customers but to work together with the community to ensure everyone has access to safe and legal water supply,” the statement said.
Solomon Water said, it will be conducting community awareness sessions to provide information on legal connections, billing processes, payment plans to assist struggling customers, how to contact us for water-related issues, and how they can support customers in making this transition.
Under the SIWA Act 1993, unauthorized connections are illegal, and moving forward, Solomon Water will be disconnecting illegal connections and taking necessary legal actions where required.
“However, we encourage all customers to take this opportunity to regularize their water connections and be part of a sustainable water future for Honiara, Noro, Tulagi, and Auki.
“For customers who notice illegal connections in their neighborhoods or among family members, we encourage the use of the Solomon Water Care app.
“The app allows bill-paying customers to report illegal connections anonymously, ensuring privacy and safety for those who may feel uncomfortable directly addressing the issue.
“This tool supports the community in holding everyone accountable and contributes to the overall improvement of the water supply system.
“Importantly, illegal connections can also serve as inlets for contamination, posing serious risks to the quality of water.
“These unsanctioned links to the water system can expose customers to unsafe water, which could negatively impact their health.
“Therefore, it is critical that illegal connections are reported as soon as possible to protect the safety and quality of our shared water resources,” the statement said.
