Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has highlighted significant infrastructure issues on Rotuma, stating that the island’s roads and main port have suffered due to the prolonged closure of the Public Works Department depot. He noted that if the depot had remained operational, necessary road upgrades could have continued, addressing the declining conditions.
On a radio program, Rabuka emphasized the urgency of repairs required at the port, which serves as Rotuma’s primary link to the mainland, facilitating essential fuel deliveries approximately every two weeks. He underscored that reliable transport services are crucial, especially during heavy rain, when disruptions to power supply can threaten the community’s well-being.
Despite these challenges, there are signs of progress on the island. Rabuka reported the opening of a new hospital alongside the existing facility and mentioned ongoing efforts to secure an ambulance for residents. He expressed appreciation for the local youth’s enthusiasm participating in a farming contest, indicating a positive trend towards community engagement and development.
This situation mirrors earlier concerns raised by residents regarding ineffective responses to infrastructure maintenance, with discussions from local leaders noting that essential road projects have been delayed. There is, however, hope as Public Works Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau has recently acknowledged the need for improved oversight and allocated resources to expedite repairs in Rotuma’s coastal areas.
The government’s acknowledgment of these infrastructure challenges and its commitment to addressing them reflect a growing awareness of the importance of connectivity for both daily life and economic activities. With the concerted efforts from the government and community engagement, there is potential for improvement in living conditions and a brighter outlook for the residents of Rotuma.
Overall, the commitment to enhancing infrastructure and service delivery on Rotuma fosters hope that the community will soon see tangible benefits from these initiatives.
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