The iTaukei Land Trust Board (TLTB) has urged landowners in Nasealevu to avoid disrupting operations at the Nasealevu Water Catchment in Labasa. This appeal comes in response to warnings from landowners about potential action if their grievances are not adequately addressed.
TLTB stated that an external consultant had influenced certain members of the landowning unit to question the legitimacy of the lease title, which raised concerns about possible disruptions to the catchment’s accessibility. TLTB is committed to working collaboratively with the landowners to resolve their issues amicably.
Key among the landowners’ concerns are requests for the construction and maintenance of an access road, transparency in lease issuance processes, and verification of lease approvals. They also sought a forest inventory from the Forestry Department to assess timber value and proposed the construction of twelve fishponds as compensation for environmental impacts. However, a study indicated that only three fishponds could be supported by the water overflow from the dam, leading to dissatisfaction among landowners.
In discussions involving TLTB, the Water Authority of Fiji (WAF), and other stakeholders, it was agreed that WAF would undertake the construction and maintenance of the access road, acknowledging it as a significant concern for the landowners. Additionally, TLTB plans to provide necessary lease documents to enhance transparency, including the lease title and financial statements for the four clans involved.
This ongoing dialogue and consultation reflect an encouraging effort to maintain open lines of communication and ensure the rights and concerns of landowners are considered. The collaboration between TLTB and local stakeholders highlights a shared commitment to finding sustainable solutions that respect the needs of the community while safeguarding essential water resources.
The responsiveness of TLTB and the commitment of stakeholders to work towards mutual understanding suggest a hopeful trajectory for improved relationships between the government and landowners, ultimately promoting better living conditions and equitable resource management in the region.
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