Deputy Commissioner of Corrections Auta Moceisuva has raised alarms about the rapidly depleting burial spaces in Suva and Nasinu, indicating a significant public concern regarding land availability for burials. During a session with the Standing Committee on Justice, Law and Human Rights, he emphasized that landowners in proximity to major urban centers, such as Suva and Lautoka, are becoming increasingly hesitant to allocate land for burials due to fears that such facilities might lower property values. For instance, the Balawa area in Lautoka, situated in a sought-after residential area, is viewed unfavorably because of its nearby burial ground.
Moceisuva underscored that addressing this issue of diminishing burial lands is of paramount importance and necessitates cooperation among the government, the iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB), and local landowners. He highlighted that the Fiji Corrections Service is currently managing an average of 10 to 12 burials each day, predominantly at cemeteries in Suva, Tavakubu, and Nasinu. Specifically, he pointed out that the Suva Cemetery’s extension area on the hill is dwindling, and once it is fully utilized, there will be no further land available for burials.
Moreover, the situation in Nasinu is equally concerning, where a small section adjacent to the new cremation site is under development with a $2.5 million budget allocated by the government for excavation work. However, projections indicate that this area could reach capacity within the next 15 years, reaffirming the urgent need for sustainable solutions to burial space shortages.
As part of discussions surrounding the forthcoming Burial and Cremation (Amendment) Act 2025, Moceisuva emphasized the necessity for prompt and effective action to manage burial land challenges. This call to action resonates with a wider trend across urban areas in Fiji, where space for burials is shrinking due to urban development pressures.
In the face of these challenges, the promotion of cremation services is becoming an increasingly viable alternative. With governmental initiatives aimed at enhancing cremation facilities and recognizing crematoriums, the shift towards this environmentally friendly option offers hope for alleviating the pressure on traditional burial spaces. Recent developments, such as the construction of gas crematoriums in locales like Ba and Labasa, signify a collective move towards modernizing end-of-life care practices, aligning with cultural sensitivities while addressing pressing land issues.
Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to sustainable solutions, there is optimism that Fiji can navigate the complexities of burial and cremation needs, ensuring that every individual is given a dignified farewell.