The Fijian Government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have officially signed a Loan and Grant Agreement for the Critical Bridges Project in Suva. The agreement was finalized in a ceremony attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Financial Minister Professor Biman Prasad, ADB Pacific Regional Director Aaron Battern, and Apisai Ketenilagi, acting CEO of the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA).
The total funding for the project amounts to $134.5 million USD (approximately $307.7 million FJD). Of this total, $120 million USD ($274.5 million FJD) is allocated as concessional loan financing, while $14.5 million USD ($33.2 million FJD) will be provided as a grant. Professor Prasad noted that this initiative is part of Fiji’s initial National Development Plan (NDP) launched in September for the upcoming five years, highlighting the commitment to upgrading and maintaining rural infrastructure.
The FRA has identified four critical bridges that require replacement, with detailed engineering designs already prepared. The bridges set for reconstruction include the Lami Bridge at Suvavou, the Medraukutu Bridge at the Lami Cement Factory, the Sabeto Bridge at the Sabeto River, and the Viseisei Bridge located between Nadi and Lautoka.
This agreement marks the first infrastructure sector financing on concessional terms that Fiji will receive from the ADB. Ketenilagi emphasized the importance of a comprehensive strategy for the project, which incorporates climate change considerations to enhance the resilience of transportation infrastructure. The construction is scheduled to commence next year, with an anticipated completion timeline of three years.
This development signifies a proactive step towards improving Fiji’s infrastructure, addressing critical needs while also considering environmental impacts and future sustainability. It reflects a collaborative effort to ensure that essential transport links are maintained and strengthened, ultimately benefiting local communities and supporting economic growth.
In summary, this partnership with the ADB stands to bolster Fiji’s infrastructure capabilities while paving the way for a more resilient and sustainable future.
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