The recent earthquake has caused a water shortage in the Mele community on Efate. More than 7,000 residents who rely on the Mele village water source are in urgent need of clean water for their daily household needs.

Mele village has its own water supply, which is managed by the community. Michel Taravaki, the manager of the Mele water supply, reported that the water system has been damaged by the earthquake, leading to the current shortage. Efforts are being made to fill water tanks in the community with treated water for cooking and drinking. However, this is not enough to supply more than 7,000 residents who depend on the Mele water source. The damage has affected 80% of the community’s population, forcing them to seek alternative water sources, which has raised concerns for the Mele water committee.

Tony Taravaki, the area secretary for the Mele area council, stated that the assistance coming in has raised questions about the long-term support needed for the affected population. An assessment is ongoing in the community, led by the National Disaster Management Office, with water supply being a major concern.