The Public Works Department (PWD) is set to commence operations vigorously following its reinstatement by the government last year. In recent months since shutting down under the previous administration, PWD’s operations have been revitalized with the arrival of three trucks, two excavators, and two bulldozers in Suva on Wednesday.
The equipment handover took place at the Vision Motors Showroom in Vatuwaqa, where officials from the Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport were present. Paula Baleilevuka, the permanent secretary of the Ministry, emphasized that the timely arrival of these new machines would significantly enhance infrastructure and support capacity building.
Baleilevuka highlighted that the newly acquired machines are part of a larger set of equipment intended for the ministry. 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:
– Two large excavators
– Two D6 bulldozers
– Two dumper trucks
– One flat-top truck
The total value of these eight machines is $1,627,104. For the current financial year, the ministry has been allocated $5 million for the improvement and enhancement of rural roads. Baleilevuka mentioned that the new equipment and vehicles would be utilized in forthcoming projects.