The Ministry of Lands and Mineral Resources has launched Phase Two of its e-Plan Lodgement System, marking a significant step in the digital transformation of land survey and registration services in Fiji. Permanent Secretary Paula Cirikiyasawa highlighted that this upgraded system will greatly improve efficiency, transparency, and accountability within the sector.
The e-Plan system enables both private surveyors and government agencies to submit plans digitally, incorporating features such as online payment options via M-PAiSA and internet banking, along with the ability to submit requisitions electronically. A key focus of this new platform is enhanced data security, ensuring that sensitive information is safeguarded.
One of the noteworthy goals of the initiative is to reduce the approval time for survey plans by as much as 45%, bringing the turnaround from a previous average of 90 days down to around 30 working days. Cirikiyasawa remarked that the e-Plan project aligns with the government’s overarching objective of fully digitizing land services, paving the way for a paperless workflow.
This launch is part of a series of efforts to modernize the surveying industry in Fiji, which have included the introduction of advanced Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) equipment, enhancing capabilities in mapping, surveying, and environmental monitoring. The application of digital technology is vital in overcoming existing challenges, as noted by stakeholders such as the Fiji Institute of Surveyors.
With these progressive measures, Fiji is advancing towards a more efficient, transparent, and sustainable land management framework. This renewed dedication to innovation signals a positive future for land ownership and resource management in the country, promoting community empowerment and bolstering investor confidence. As these digital initiatives unfold, they are expected to yield significant enhancements in service delivery and governance within Fiji’s land administration landscape.