Denarau Island’s sewerage system is getting an upgrade. This was confirmed by the Government following an agreement between the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation, Denarau Corporation Ltd (DCL) and the Water Authority of Fiji to upgrade the Westin Sewer Pump which services the tourist hot spot.
Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka said this was a priority area for consideration, given that Denarau would continue to expand in the years ahead.
“Denarau Island alone accounts for 22 per cent of total visitor days, making it one of the most visited tourism areas,” said Mr Gavoka.
“And we expect it to grow with at least two new hotel investments currently underway, adding pressure on the existing infrastructure.
“So, while there is a need to prioritise Fiji’s infrastructure developments, we must ensure regions that generate significant revenue for the tourism industry and the economy are also considered.
“This is where public and private partnership is key.” DCL general manager Nesbitt Hazelman said the upgrade would ensure they continued to serve guests and visitors with the highest quality of service.
“To uphold and continue well into the future, our major challenges need to be addressed today and we are grateful for the support of the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation and WAF,” said Mr Hazelman.
“With the right expertise, consultation and of course, financial support, we can ensure long-term solutions for Denarau Island to continue to provide pristine services to our guests and residents.”
WAF Infrastructure Delivery chief officer Sourav Majumder said the project to upgrade the sewer pumping station and sewer line to Navakai Wastewater Treatment Plant would be carried out in phases. Mr Majumder said the first phase would begin in 2024.
The pumping station was built in the early 1970s to support Denarau’s first ever tourist property – the Westin Resort and Spa formerly known as the Regent of Fiji.
Since then, the island has grown to accommodate five precincts, nine resorts with more than 2000 rooms, 10 residential estates with 395 lots, a marina and a golf course.
The current features do not account for the number of new developments being built on the island. The project timeline is expected to be carried out from 2024 to 2026.
