The Public Works Department (PWD) is set to begin its operations with renewed vigor following its reinstatement by the government last year. After a period of inactivity under the previous administration, the PWD has made strides in its operations, recently receiving a delivery of three trucks, two excavators, and two bulldozers in Suva.
The official handover of the machinery 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, stated that the arrival of these machines is timely and will bolster infrastructure development and capacity building efforts.
Baleilevuka emphasized that the new equipment is essential for improving road standards and conditions, thereby enhancing accessibility for economic activities. He also highlighted that the machinery would increase the ministry’s capacity to carry out road construction and maintenance in rural and remote regions.
The ministry’s latest acquisitions include 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 been allocated $5 million aimed at upgrading and improving rural roads. Baleilevuka noted that the new equipment and vehicles are intended for use in upcoming projects.