The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced the approval of a $199.5 million project aimed at replacing critical bridges on Fiji’s main island, a decision that promises to significantly enhance domestic transportation connectivity. The initiative, known as the Critical Bridges Resilience Project, will be underpinned by a concessional loan of $120 million from the ADB and a $14.5 million grant from the Asian Development Fund (ADF). In addition, the Fijian government will contribute $15 million towards the financing.
According to Aaron Batten, regional director of ADB’s Pacific Subregional Office, the construction of four new bridges in Lami, Medraukutu, Sabeto, and Viseisei is expected to greatly improve access to markets, educational institutions, and healthcare services. The ADF’s support is particularly geared toward ensuring that the bridges are resilient to natural disasters like earthquakes and liquefaction, which are critical considerations in a region susceptible to such events.
The project will not only focus on building new bridges but will also promote safer infrastructure, featuring sidewalks and road safety enhancements. Furthermore, it aims to bolster the capacity of the Fiji Roads Authority in asset management and the formulation of gender-responsive policies.
In a collaborative effort, the project will also see co-financing involvement from the World Bank, which will provide a loan of $50 million.
This investment in infrastructure is likely to yield positive outcomes for local communities by improving accessibility and ensuring safety in transportation, reflecting a strong commitment to sustainable and resilient development in Fiji.
In summary, the Critical Bridges Resilience Project is a promising endeavor for Fiji, showcasing a significant investment that can lead to enhanced connectivity, safety, and resilience against natural disasters in the transportation sector.
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