The Ministry of Lands has surpassed its initial target by approving 838 survey plans, significantly more than the 240 planned. This achievement comes from submissions by both private and government surveyors, marking a critical advancement in Fiji’s land registration and development efforts.
To bolster the accuracy of land mapping, the Ministry is collaborating with Geoscience Australia via the Pacific Community (SPC) to enhance Fiji’s geodetic datum. The initiative entails deploying advanced software for processing metadata, which will refine the country’s mapping reference. Alongside this, work is ongoing to maintain the eight Continuous Operating Reference Stations (CORS) situated in regions like Labasa, Taveuni, and Rotuma, essential for providing data critical to land surveys. The current maintenance focuses on resolving power and internet connectivity issues.
In addition to the technical advancements, the Ministry is conducting demarcation surveys for mahogany leases, with 16 out of 28 leases surveyed so far. Reports are being prepared for submission but face delays due to the involvement of multiple stakeholders, including the Department of Town Planning.
Furthermore, the Ministry implements rigorous testing for all survey equipment utilized in Fiji to assure precision in distances and bearings. Overall, these initiatives reflect a steadfast commitment to improving land management processes and promoting fair land distribution.
Recent discussions on advancements within the land surveying sector, as articulated by Jitendra Singh, President of the Fiji Institute of Surveyors, emphasized the necessity for continuous education and utilization of modern technologies like GNSS and drones to elevate surveying standards.
The collective efforts from various sectors highlight an optimistic view for land management in Fiji, aiming to foster sustainable development and community empowerment. This proactive approach signifies a bright future for landowners, where accurate surveys can lead to better governance and increased economic opportunities for indigenous communities.
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