MAJOR ROAD INFRASTRUCTURE WORKS SET TO BENEFIT LAKEBA ISLAND

21st May, 2025

Major road rehabilitation and maintenance works are currently in progress on Lakeba Island, aiming to improve transportation links and enhance safety, for over 1500 people.

The project covers various infrastructure improvements, including road grading and gravelling, culvert and drainage installations, concrete pavement repairs, coastal protection works, restoration of the jetty causeway, and foot crossing upgrades

These works are essential in supporting the island’s transportation network, which is critical for daily commuting, access to services, economic activities, and emergency response.

The road works focus on several key routes – the Lakeba Circular Road, the Lakeba Airstrip Road, access roads leading to various villages such as Tubou, Nasaqalau, Vakano,Yadrana, Nukunuku, Waitabu, Waciwaci, Levuka and institutional roads that connect important public services such as hospitals, schools, government stations, and utilities.

These roads serve as lifelines for residents, providing vital connections between communities and essential infrastructure.

The Mata-ni-Tikina of Lakeba Island, Mr. Salesi Kinikinilau, expressed his gratitude to the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) for the ongoing roadworks on the island and the positive impact they are already having on the community.

“We are very fortunate that FRA responded to our request. Just a few months ago, the road conditions were poor, but we’ve seen a significant improvement,” he said.

“With three primary schools, three kindergartens, and one secondary school on the island, it’s a great relief—especially for our students—who can now be more safely and easily transported by the RSL,” he added.

In addition to road surface works, drainage and culvert installations are being carried out. These improvements are crucial in safeguarding road longevity and ensuring year-round accessibility.

One of the critical components of the project is the reinstatement of the jetty causeway. This structure plays a vital role in enabling boats to safely dock and offload goods and passengers.

The Provincial Administrator for the Lau Group, Mr. Iokobo Waqanidrola, said Lakeba Island is one of the major centre for Lau Group, and expressed gratitude for the ongoing roadworks and the rehabilitation of the jetty causeway.

Its restoration will not only enhance the efficiency of marine transport but also support economic activity such as trade, which is vital for the island’s growth,” he said.

I compliment the good work carried out by FRA and look forward to the new road improvements once completed,” he added.

The project when completed is expected to bring long-term benefits to Lakeba’s residents, businesses, and institutions by improving access to essential services.

These ongoing developments highlight the importance of continued investment in rural infrastructure and demonstrate a strong commitment to the well-being and sustainable development of outer island communities by FRA.

A total of 30 kilometers of road are scheduled for rehabilitation, with the project expected to be completed by the end of June this year, weather permitting

FRA remains firmly committed to managing, maintaining, and developing Fiji’s roads to support the nation’s progress.

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