The Government of Fiji has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting inclusivity and improving community infrastructure through the recent inauguration of a new driveway at the Lajonia Shree Sanatan Dharam Mandali, also known as Lajonia Shiv Mandir, in Labasa. This initiative, funded by the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs’ Multi-Ethnic Grant Program, came at a cost of $13,738.70 and aims to enhance access for over 1,500 devotees who frequent the temple for various religious, cultural, and community activities.
The temple has long served as a significant venue for prayer services, educational programs, and cultural celebrations. Thus, the newly constructed driveway represents a significant advancement for the local community. During the commissioning ceremony, Hon. Charan Jeath Singh, Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs and Sugar Industry, stated that the project signifies much more than just infrastructure; it embodies accessibility, unity, and progress. He expressed that it reflects the government’s dedication to ensuring that all Fijians, irrespective of their ethnicity or faith, can freely and safely engage in cultural and spiritual life.
Prior to this construction, inadequate road access presented challenges for many devotees, particularly the elderly, individuals with disabilities, and families with young children, especially during inclement weather. The new driveway enhances safety and convenience, particularly beneficial during significant festivals and weekly Ramayan recitals, thereby fostering stronger community bonds and preserving essential cultural practices.
This project exemplifies a successful partnership between the Ministry and the temple committee, wherein the government provided materials while the temple committee contributed labor. Such collaborations highlight how joint efforts between the government and local communities can result in meaningful improvements to quality of life and the preservation of cultural heritage across Fiji.
These types of projects align with broader governmental initiatives aimed at enhancing community welfare, showcasing a commitment to inclusivity and social unity throughout the nation. This collective progress paints a promising picture for a future where cultural and spiritual engagement can thrive across Fiji’s diverse communities.