The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources has officially launched Phase Two of its e-Plan Lodgement System, a significant advancement in its digital transformation efforts aimed at modernizing land survey and registration services in Fiji. According to Permanent Secretary Paula Cirikiyasawa, the newly upgraded system enhances efficiency, transparency, and accountability across the sector.
The e-Plan system allows both private surveyors and government agencies to lodge plans digitally, featuring options for online payments through M-PAiSA and internet banking, along with electronic submission of requisitions. Enhanced data security is also a paramount aspect of this new online platform.
Notably, the initiative seeks to decrease the approval time for survey plans by up to 45%, cutting the turnaround from the previous 90 days to approximately 30 working days. Cirikiyasawa emphasized that the e-Plan project aligns with the government’s broader goal of achieving fully digitized land services, moving towards a completely paperless workflow.
This launch follows various initiatives aimed at modernizing the surveying industry, including the deployment of advanced Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) equipment, which enhances mapping, surveying, and environmental monitoring capabilities. The integration of digital technology is crucial in addressing challenges within the sector, as previously emphasized by stakeholders like the Fiji Institute of Surveyors.
With these ongoing advancements, Fiji is progressing towards creating a more efficient, transparent, and sustainable land management system. The renewed commitment to innovation marks a hopeful trajectory for the future of land ownership and resource management in the country, ultimately fostering community empowerment and investor confidence. As these digital solutions are put in place, they hold the promise of driving significant improvements in service delivery and overall governance in Fiji’s land administration.