The Fiji Institute of Surveyors is advocating for the modernization of the surveying industry through digital upgrades to enhance work processes and resolve ongoing challenges. According to President Jitendra Singh, while the industry is utilizing advanced technologies like GPS, drones, and 3D scanning, it still heavily depends on manual paperwork, which results in significant delays in approvals and land management.
Singh emphasizes that transitioning to a digital system can dramatically reduce errors, improve accuracy, and streamline surveying operations. By minimizing the lag in communication between stakeholders and surveyors, the institute aims to enhance accountability and efficiency. Singh remarked, “If we can cut the time down to even half by using emails and doing things digitally, it would just make things very easy.”
Surveyor General Asakaia Tabua also supports the initiative, revealing plans to digitize the surveying system to expedite land title approvals. Currently, it can take nearly two years for a survey plan to gain approval. The proposed digital transition is expected to shorten this timeline significantly.
This push for modernization follows previous discussions at the Fiji Institute of Surveyors Congress, where similar sentiments were echoed regarding the importance of embracing new technologies. The integration of digital systems is not only a step towards efficiency but also aligns with broader government initiatives aimed at enhancing digital infrastructure across multiple sectors.
In addition, initiatives by the Ministry of Lands to improve land mapping and geodetic frameworks show a commitment to modernizing land management practices in Fiji. As these advancements take shape, they are expected to contribute positively to the efficiency and effectiveness of land surveys, ultimately benefiting landowners and enhancing economic opportunities across the region.
The collaborative efforts of various stakeholders in the surveying sector indicate a promising future. The ongoing push for digital adoption highlights a commitment to furthering professional standards, increasing the skill sets of surveyors, and ensuring better governance in land management practices.
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