The Government of Fiji has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering inclusivity and enhancing community infrastructure with the recent commissioning of a new driveway at the Lajonia Shree Sanatan Dharam Mandali, also known as Lajonia Shiv Mandir, located in Labasa. This project, funded under the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs’ Multi-Ethnic Grant Program, amounted to $13,738.70 and is set to significantly improve access for over 1,500 devotees who visit the temple for religious, cultural, and community events.
For many years, the temple has been a vital gathering place for prayer services, festivals, educational programs, and cultural activities, making the new driveway a crucial development for the broader community. During the commissioning ceremony, Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, Hon. Charan Jeath Singh, emphasized that the initiative goes beyond mere infrastructure; it symbolizes accessibility, unity, and progress. He stated, “This reflects the Government’s commitment to ensuring that all Fijians, regardless of ethnicity or faith, can participate freely and safely in cultural and spiritual life.”
Previously, inadequate road access posed challenges for many devotees, particularly the elderly, persons with disabilities, and families with small children, especially during unfavorable weather. The new driveway now guarantees safer and more convenient access, which is particularly beneficial during major festivals and weekly Ramayan recitals, thereby strengthening community ties and preserving important cultural traditions.
The project demonstrates a successful collaboration between the Ministry and the temple committee, where the government provided materials and the temple committee contributed labor. This initiative exemplifies how partnerships between the government and local communities can lead to tangible improvements that enhance quality of life and cultural heritage throughout Fiji.
Such projects resonate with similar governmental initiatives aimed at community enhancement, further underscoring the commitment to inclusivity and social cohesion across Fiji. This collective progress indicates a hopeful and vibrant future, where cultural and spiritual engagement can flourish across diverse communities.