Devotees of the Shree Mahadeo Shivwada Mandir in Waiqele, Labasa, have expressed their appreciation to the Coalition Government following the completion of renovation works that have improved the safety and comfort of the long-standing place of worship.
The renovated temple was officially commissioned today by the Minister for Multi-Ethnic Affairs, Culture, Heritage and Arts, Hon. Charan Jeath Singh.
Prior to the renovation, the temple hall was not fully secured with grills, allowing dogs and other animals to enter and dirty the premises. The ageing structure also experienced roof leakages, which disrupted prayer sessions during rainy weather.
Temple Committee Member, Mr. Chandar Deo Shandil, said the Government assistance had addressed several challenges that devotees had faced over the years.
“The temple hall was not fully grilled, and dogs and other animals would enter and dirty the place. There was also leakage in the temple as the structure is quite old, and this would affect our prayer sessions,” Mr. Shandil said.
The grant assistance also supported the construction of a covered shed along the walkway, providing protection for devotees during wet weather.
“Previously, there was no shed along the walkway and devotees would get wet during rainy weather while attending prayers,” he said.
“On behalf of the community and the temple committee, I thank the Ministry of Multi-Ethnic Affairs for supporting the temple with this grant. This will now provide a better and improved facility for our devotees,” he said.
Minister Singh said the Ministry values community organisations as important partners in national development and acknowledged the role communities themselves play in ensuring the success and sustainability of Government-assisted projects.
“The success of projects such as these demonstrates what can be achieved when Government support is combined with strong community ownership and participation,” Minister Singh said.
The Minister said the Ministry would continue working in partnership with community-based organisations to improve facilities that support religious, cultural and community activities while strengthening participation and community development at the grassroots level.