AZARIA FAREEN
More than 350 members in the villages of Nakorokoroyawa and Korovou situated in the interior of Naitasiri are set to benefit from two foot crossings opened recently.
Visiting the district recently, Minister for Rural and Maritime Development, Dr Mahendra Reddy said the Government was committed to the provision of the basic necessities of its people and uplifting the condition of the communities around the country.
“Whenever we have deliberations in cabinet and whenever we make policies we always think about the people who live the furthest and in the remotest part of Fiji,” Minister Reddy said.
“This is the most inclusive government this country has ever had because we see that any growth in development is only sustainable and meaningful if it includes all those who feel that they are not considered.”
The foot crossing project was part of the rehabilitation plan carried out after the devastation of Tropical Cyclone Winston and only possible through the co-ordination and negotiation of the villagers, provincial administrator’s office and iTaukei community in the province.
“Whenever we do opening of crossings we feel very enlightened because crossing and bridges are all about joining two communities and areas,” Minister Reddy said.
“It is not only a happy occasion for the community but also the Government as we are proud of the commitment and partnership of the members for the provision of the timber to lower the cost of this project.”
The 12-metre long foot crossing in Nakorokoroyawa village cost more than $4,000 and the 15-meter long foot bridge for Korovou village cost more than $5,000 which will be used by members of 67 households. “It is important that people participate in the growth process whether it is a business, growth of a village, region, district or a country,” Minister Reddy said.
“In order to do that, we have to ensure that we have the basic infrastructure then we roll out programs to the rural, interior and maritime development areas.”
Narokorokoyawa village chief Ratu Josaia Qereqeretabua highlighted that the lack of foot bridge was a great concern for the community due to the risk the community members used to take during bad weather condition as the make-shift crossing - a coconut stump - was not easy.
“This is a great relief as now we have access from one village to the other; the children living in Nakorokoroyawa can attend the school in Korovou village and the elderly can visit the nursing station at their convenience,” Ratu Qereqeretabua said.