Work on the new Nabouwalu township in Bua is in progress, but the project is facing major challenges as a result of flooding.
Housing and Local Government Minister Maciu Nalumisa told Parliament 5.5 hectares of land was being developed into a new town centre, with 23 commercial lots, four civic lots, four industrial sites, one government lot and recreational space.
“Phase one of the project is currently underway,” he said.
“The focus is on seven commercial lots along the Nabouwalu Highway and $1.3million is budgeted in this financial year to cater for the civic works.”
However, Mr Nalumisa said heavy downpour caused Vunivesi Creek to overflow onto the site.
“When there is heavy downpour in Nabouwalu, because of the creek that runs onto the new developed site, the water overflows and floods the area that’s to be developed,” he told MPs.
The ministry has begun preliminary survey work to resurvey the creek area and is working with the Lands Ministry and Department of Waterways to establish a new diversion.
Three families are also being relocated from the township site, with compensation and services being arranged in collaboration with the Bua provincial office and the Tui Vuya.
More than $3.2m has already been spent on consultancy, surveys and preliminary works. The overall cost is estimated at $8.4million, with completion expected in the 2027-2028 financial year.
