The Public Works Department (PWD) is set to resume operations vigorously following its reinstatement by the government last year. After being closed by the previous administration, PWD has made significant strides in recent months by acquiring three trucks, two excavators, and two bulldozers, which were delivered in Suva on Wednesday.
The handover ceremony took place at the Vision Motors Showroom in Vatuwaqa, where officials from the Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport received the new equipment. Paula Baleilevuka, the permanent secretary of the ministry, highlighted the importance of this delivery, stating that it would improve infrastructure and build capacity.
Baleilevuka emphasized that the new machines represent part of a broader initiative to enhance the ministry’s equipment. He noted, “These machines will improve road standards and conditions and facilitate accessibility for economic activities. They will also enhance our capacity to undertake road construction and maintenance works in rural and remote areas.”
The ministry received a total of eight machines, including two large excavators, two D6 bulldozers, two dumper trucks, and one flat-top truck, with a total value of $1,627,104. For the current financial year, the ministry has a budget of $5 million allocated for the enhancement and upgrading of rural roads. Baleilevuka indicated that the new equipment and vehicles would be utilized in forthcoming projects.