Fiji government strengthens road construction oversight to improve durability

Fiji's government is implementing stricter oversight of road construction projects to enhance the durability of its road network. Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau stated that re-establishing the Public Works Department will improve monitoring of infrastructure projects, addressing concerns about the longevity of roads damaged by frequent rainfall and natural disasters.

The ministry is introducing independent quality assessments to ensure better construction standards. Minister Tuisawau highlighted a collaboration with Australia's National Transport Research Organisation through the 'Road Network Improvement Program.' This initiative aims to bolster the resilience of the road network.

"At the moment, that role is a bit convoluted or mixed up, but now we are demarcating it as we move forward in terms of roads, and PWD is also assisting with the roads, especially the rural roads, the village roads," Ro Filipe explained. He emphasized that separating monitoring and construction roles will improve accountability and national road standards. The ministry is also working with engineers in the Western Division to ensure roads can withstand local weather conditions, thereby reducing frequent repair needs.

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At the moment, that role is a bit convoluted or mixed up, but now we are demarcating it as we move forward in terms of roads, and PWD is also assisting with the roads, especially the rural roads, the village roads.