The Minister for Public Works, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, has officially announced the re-establishment of the Public Works Department (PWD) following a recent Cabinet decision aimed at enhancing infrastructure throughout Fiji. The revitalized PWD has already initiated operations, primarily targeting improvements for rural roads and addressing long-standing infrastructure issues.
Minister Tuisawau reported that teams are actively engaged in various regions, working on several rural roads to improve connectivity for communities that have long suffered from inadequate road conditions. He noted that divisional offices are now operational, with divisional engineers overseeing ongoing projects and planning future upgrades.
The government’s move to reinvigorate the PWD is seen as a critical step to effectively respond to infrastructure needs, particularly in rural and remote areas. Tuisawau characterized this re-establishment as “progressive,” acknowledging that while some PWD assets remain with the Ministry of Civil Service and other departments, steps are being taken to optimize resources for increased efficiency.
Furthermore, the PWD is forming a strategic partnership with the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) to ensure that both departments work in tandem, avoiding any duplication of efforts. This collaboration aligns with a broader governmental strategy to utilize financial resources efficiently while addressing vital road maintenance and property upkeep.
The Minister emphasized the importance of inclusivity in this initiative, assuring that the reestablishment of the PWD intends to guarantee maintenance and improvements for all roads, irrespective of their classification. This reflects a notable shift in governmental priorities under the new Coalition Government, which is placing infrastructure development at the forefront of its agenda, particularly for areas that have historically been neglected.
The revival of the PWD and the deployment of heavy machinery across various regions showcase a dedicated effort to enhance Fiji’s infrastructure. This initiative not only signifies the government’s commitment to ensuring reliable road access for rural communities but also aims to stimulate economic activity and improve residents’ quality of life. As these developments take shape, they promise significantly better connectivity and infrastructure for Fiji, heralding a hopeful outlook for the future.