The Samoa Observer escorted the Samoa Water Authority (SWA)  on Wednesday to Vaitele-Tai to visit families reported to be living without water and power.

SWA officials picked up the Samoa Observer before travelling to the area, where they met directly with affected households. During the visit, the Authority spoke with one family who confirmed they had been living without water.

In discussions on site, SWA acknowledged the family’s situation and explained that the main water pipelines in the area have already been restored. However, officials stressed that individual households must formally request a connection before supply can be activated.

“The pipelines are already restored,” a SWA representative said during the conversation. “The next step is for the family to submit a request so we can carry out a survey and process the connection.”

SWA also clarified that, according to its official records, the area is listed under Saina and Toamua, although residents told the Observer they identify their location as Vaitele Tai.

The Authority confirmed it will conduct surveys for families who submit applications and assess each case to facilitate new water connections.

Residents welcomed the visit, saying it helped clarify the procedures required to access water services. SWA reiterated its commitment to working with families to ensure proper connection through its established process.