TOURISM Minister Viliame Gavoka has vehemently opposed the proposed $1.4billion Waste to Energy power plant that The Next Generation Fiji has planned for Vuda in Lautoka.
Mr Gavoka said the area the developers planned to set up the high-tech facility was earmarked for more tourist developments.
“What you are hearing from the people is reflected in the tourism industry,” said Mr Gavoka.
“The industry is pleading to the Government or to the ministry dealing with this project not to have that in Vuda because the Vuda corridor is earmarked for tourism developments.
“And it is not a new thing. We have known about it for quite some time, and a lot of the plans are quite advanced.
“The tourism projects that are earmarked for that area are quite big, so we do not want to jeopardise those plans.”
Mr Gavoka said the facility should be relocated to another area.
“Vuda is in the heartland of tourism, hence the plea that we don’t have this facility in the Vuda corridor.
“The plea from the industry is for it to be taken somewhere else.
“Personally, I have seen this project done in Singapore and it works very well, but it was located in the furthest part of the island and away from the populated areas, business centres and tourist centres.
“I strongly urge that we do the same in Fiji.”
Mr Gavoka’s call was echoed by other industry stakeholders including Rosie Holidays and Ahura Resorts Fiji Islands managing director Tony Whitton, who explained the proposed development could impact their business.
“One of the most popular half-day tours operated by our family business is the Vuda Lookout experience. This tour includes visits to the historic Viseisei Village, local handicraft markets and the surrounding picturesque landscapes,” said Mr Whitton in a social media post.
“This tour plays a meaningful role in supporting local livelihoods … The proposed development will significantly impact many families in this area who depend on this tour.”
