Rural infrastructure in the Northern Division is poised for significant improvement with the introduction of new heavy machinery to the Public Works Department (PWD) at the Vatunibale Depot in Labasa. This new fleet, which includes advanced excavators and trucks, is designated for road maintenance, construction, and drainage work across the northern region.
Public Works Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau highlighted that the ministry has allocated budget for hiring staff to manage the sophisticated equipment, thus creating job opportunities and enhancing service delivery. The initiative also confronts the challenge of a high turnover of technical staff by re-employing experienced former personnel.
The investment aligns with the government’s priority to enhance rural accessibility, thereby providing communities in the Northern Division with more reliable road networks. The new equipment will be mobilized promptly to support current road upgrades in rural and maritime areas, crucial for efficient transportation of goods, access to educational facilities, and overall improved connectivity throughout Vanua Levu.
This development mirrors recent efforts following the reinstatement of the PWD by the government last year. Similar enhancements have been noted with the acquisition of additional machinery, including trucks, bulldozers, and excavators, improving the department’s ability to tackle infrastructure projects, particularly in remote areas.
The new machinery signifies a progressive step towards revitalizing the infrastructure in rural Fiji, enhancing not only the physical landscape but contributing positively to economic growth and community well-being by ensuring better access and transportation routes. This continual investment in heavy machinery and workforce capabilities underscores the government’s commitment to sustainable development in rural regions.