The Public Works Department (PWD) is set to resume operations vigorously following its reinstatement by the government last year. After a closure initiated by the previous administration, PWD has recently strengthened its operations with the acquisition of three trucks, two excavators, and two bulldozers delivered in Suva on Wednesday.
The handover of this heavy machinery took place at the Vision Motors Showroom in Vatuwaqa, involving officials from the Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport. Paula Baleilevuka, the permanent secretary of the ministry, expressed that the prompt delivery of these new machines would significantly contribute to infrastructure improvements and enhance the ministry’s operational capacity.
Baleilevuka pointed out that these machines are key components of a new inventory for the ministry and stated, “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 several pieces of equipment, including two large excavators, two D6 bulldozers, two dumper trucks, and one flat-top truck, which together are valued at $1,627,104. For the current financial year, the Ministry has been allocated $5 million earmarked for the upgrade and enhancement of rural roads. Baleilevuka mentioned that the newly acquired equipment and vehicles would be deployed in forthcoming projects.