More than 20 water sources in Northwest Malekula starts to dry up as a result of the intense sun and prolonged dry conditions.

Area Administrator, Jerryson Hosea, confirmed to VBTC News that about half of the area’s population , around 6,000 people , are being affected.

He said the situation is becoming critical, as many households rely on wells and spring water.

“Some of the water sources are connected directly into pipes, but because of the strong sun, the water levels have dropped. At Wintua, the water is also low — it’s very serious now. Many times, when this happens, we have to pay for trucks to refill our tanks.”

Malampa WASH Supervisor, Haines Dini, highlighted the importance of every household having a secure water supply, adding that water trucking is one of the short-term ways to assist affected communities.

Mr Hosea is urging people to conserve water and use it wisely as the dry conditions continue.