The Minister for Public Works, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, has announced the re-establishment of the Public Works Department (PWD) following a Cabinet decision that aims to significantly enhance infrastructure in rural and remote areas of Fiji. The department is now actively working on several rural road projects, aimed at improving access for various communities.
With the reopening of divisional offices, PWD teams are being led by divisional engineers who will oversee ongoing projects and plan for further upgrades. Tuisawau emphasized that restoring PWD is crucial for improving infrastructure responsiveness, particularly in less accessible regions. This initiative reflects a progressive approach, as he noted that some properties once under PWD are still with other ministries, necessitating effective arrangements for efficiency.
Currently, the PWD is collaborating closely with the Fiji Roads Authority, ensuring that their efforts complement rather than duplicate each other across the regions they serve. This strategic cooperation aims to maximize the use of financial resources effectively while ensuring that necessary roadworks and property maintenance receive appropriate attention.
In previous discussions, Tuisawau has expressed concerns regarding the condition of numerous rural and maritime roads that were left neglected under the previous administration. The re-establishment of the PWD is viewed as a positive step toward remedying these infrastructural challenges, particularly in light of the government’s recent investments in heavy road work machinery stationed at divisional depots across the nation.
Recent roadwork efforts are focused on critical areas such as Nasereilagi, Nalidi, Roma in Ra, Naisogo in Naitasiri, Nasealevu in Macuata, and Vanuabalavu in Lau. The revival of the PWD not only represents a renewed commitment from the government but also a hopeful outlook for the future, as enhanced infrastructure is expected to facilitate economic growth and improve the quality of life for residents living in these regions. By prioritizing infrastructure development, the government aims to foster better connectivity, facilitating greater opportunities for the communities throughout Fiji.
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