In 1976, Lautoka officially ascended to the status of Fiji’s second city, a milestone that was celebrated as a significant achievement for the town and its residents. The announcement, made by then Prime Minister Ratu Sir Kamisese Mara during a news conference in Suva, marked a pivotal moment for the city known as the heart of the Western Division.
The excitement surrounding the declaration was palpable among the locals. Mayor Councillor Hari Punja expressed his delight, stating that the occasion was a proud moment for Lautoka’s residents, recognizing the town’s substantial contributions to the nation. Mayor Punja commended the government for this prestigious designation, which affirmed Lautoka’s role as the administrative and commercial center for the Western Division—a region that stretches from Sigatoka to Rakiraki and is home to over half of Fiji’s population.
According to preliminary census figures from that same year, Lautoka’s population had reached 22,500, exceeding the 20,000 threshold necessary for city status. Mayor Punja highlighted that the population had doubled over the years, largely due to the rapid development in areas such as Drasa and Vitogo. He noted that the town’s infrastructure had also seen significant improvements, with 90 percent of roads being tarsealed.
The push for Lautoka’s city status had been on the town council’s agenda since 1972, but it wasn’t until September 1976 that an application was officially made to the government. Mayor Punja expressed his aspiration for Lautoka to serve as the regional headquarters for the Western Division, advocating for more government departments to establish offices within the city.
This celebratory moment in Lautoka’s history reflects the town’s enduring growth and its critical role in defining the national landscape. The recognition not only honored the city’s past but also opened doors for future developments, fostering optimism among its inhabitants for continued progress and enhancement of the region.
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