The Government has set its sights on the restoration of essential services in the flood-hit areas in the Western Division.

Permanent Secretary for Disaster Management Col. Inia Seruiratu says the Government is moving from immediate relief to slow recovery operations.

We have begun the slow process of clearing and cleaning ujp. On essential services, water, at this stage, we have been able to make somne progress. In Rakiraki, it 80%, in Tavua/ Vatukoula, its also at 80%, Ba is 50%, Sigatoka is around 25 to 30%. Ba at 50%.

Col. Seruiratu says that the the Water Authority of Fiji is finding it difficult to provide water to affected areas due to accessibility and structural damage to infrastructure.