THE reopening of Lomaloma Jetty on Vanuabalavu island will significantly benefit the local community by bolstering economic activity and reinforcing the island’s strategic connectivity with the mainland and beyond.
The jetty was reopened on May 4.
Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) in a statement, confirmed the historic milestone marks the culmination of efforts to restore a vital maritime link that had been closed since 2021 due to damage caused by prolonged exposure to seawater.
“Lomaloma Jetty has long served as the lifeline for over 780 residents of Vanuabalavu, providing essential access for passenger travel and cargo transportation,” an FRA statement reads.
“Its strategic location supports the daily livelihoods of villagers across the 17 villages on Vanuabalevu, facilitating the movement of goods, agricultural produce and essential supplies.”
The authority stated the jetty’s reopening would enable reliable and regular maritime services, including monthly franchise vessel operations, private vessel trips and government shipping services. Lau provincial administrator Iakobo Waqanidrola said the jetty had been a long-standing issue, and its reopening had addressed the urgent need for improved infrastructure for the islanders.
“The reopening of our Lomaloma Jetty is not just a repair; it is the mending of our island’s heart,” Mr Waqanidrola said.
“Since 2021, we have felt the absence of this vital link and the reopening has brought relief for the people with the daily movement of goods and services.
“We are working towards narrowing the gap between the urban and island communities in terms of infrastructure service delivery, and we are grateful to have the jetty operational again.
“This will now also provide a significant boost for tourism as we have a better port of entry.”
