Residents in Tavua are urgently calling on the government to address the severe deterioration of the town’s infrastructure. Businessman and local ratepayer Dhirendra Singh expressed concerns that Tavua has not had a proper sewage system in decades, which has left neighboring villages vulnerable to unsanitary conditions. He emphasized the need for essential facilities, including a new morgue at Tavua Hospital, as the existing one was established 35 years ago.
Singh pointed out the lack of organized transport options in the town, stating that the absence of designated bus, taxi, and carrier stands has contributed to daily transport chaos. The situation underscores the community’s frustrations as they grapple with basic services that are falling short.
In response to these infrastructural challenges, Water Authority of Fiji CEO Seru Soderberg confirmed that a feasibility study for a new wastewater system in Tavua is set for the 2027-28 financial year. He noted that for progress to be made, land acquisition and detailed design work are necessary prerequisites before new infrastructure can be put in place. In the interim, the authority plans to transport fecal sludge from septic tanks to Natabua in Lautoka.
Adding to the hope for improvement, a representative from the Health Ministry stated that plans for a new morgue serving both Tavua Hospital and Nadarivatu Health Centre are scheduled within the current financial year. Despite acknowledged delays, residents are empowered by this commitment as they continue to voice their needs for better services.
These discussions were highlighted during the Fijian Media Association Town Hall meeting in Tavua, where local residents urged for swift action. The previous concerns raised regarding Tavua Hospital by political figures such as the Fiji Labour Party also paint a broader picture of the area’s infrastructural needs. The Ministry of Health is actively addressing urgent repairs within the hospital, particularly in light of recent stresses from a dengue outbreak in the Western Division.
The combination of community advocacy, governmental awareness, and planned infrastructure improvements fosters a sense of optimism for Tavua’s future. As the government engages with residents to enhance health and sanitation services, there is hope for a healthier and more responsive environment that meets the needs of the Fijian population.
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