Access Road Delivers Lifeline for Settlements

Decades of residents using an old trek to travel in and out of Lekutu and Caurok­odrika settlements in Nakelikoso, Macuata Province will be now a hurdle of the past.

This is after the Ministry of Ru­ral and Maritime Development and Disaster Management under its Community Access Roads, Foot­paths and Footbridges (CARFF) funded a community access road project for them at a total cost of $49,000.

Line minister Mosese Bulitavu commissioned the project on Thursday.

Implemented under the Lekutu/ Caurokodrika community access road project now provides safe, all­weather access for 32 households, directly benefiting a population of 140 people, including men, women, senior citizens and school children.

Community leader Josua Tueba said in the past, they depended on a narrow and uneven trek to reach the main road.

"It was, especially difficult for the elderly, women, children and those who were sick and needed urgent medical attention," Mr Tueba said.

"Also, our farmers used to find a lot of challenges in getting their yaqona and farming produces to the markets."

During wet weather, the path would become muddy and slippery.

Parents were always worried about their children walking to school because it was not safe or easy to use.

Mr Tueba added the new access road has brought much-needed reief and convenience to the commu­nity, improving mobility and access to essential services.

He thanked Government for the assistance.

Mr Bulitavu said the project was part of the State's commitment to improving rural infrastructure and ensuring that development reached even the most remote communities.

"This road will provide a lifeline for the people of Lekutu and Cau­rokodrika," Mr Bulitavu said.

"It improves access to health services, education, markets and transportation, while also enhanc­ing safety and resilience for the community."

Government remains focused on delivering inclusive and sustain­able development that improves the quality of life for all Fijians.