Significant efforts are underway to transform Savusavu – including installation of CCTV cameras and more foot patrols by Police to improve safety, proper landfill and a centralised sewerage treatment plant and parking meters in the town.
This has been highlighted by Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa during the debate on Consolidated Review Report of the Savusavu Town Council 2014 and 2015 Annual Reports.
He says to strengthen the approach on drug-related issues, the Council has conducted meetings with the Divisional Police Commander Northern and the Officer in Charge of Savusavu Police Station regarding police visibility in town, especially on weekends, and increasing foot patrols in hotspot areas.
Nalumisa says the Council has provided a location for a new police post in town.
The Minister further says that under the Na Vualiku Project, funded by the World Bank, they have identified a proposed site in the Savudrodro area for a proper landfill in Savusavu and a budget of $6.75 million has been allocated.
He says a feasibility study will be conducted by environmental consultants.
Nalimisa also says that a centralised sewerage treatment plant is also part of the Na Vualiku Project and relevant stakeholders and the working group are collaborating to ensure the project is implemented efficiently.
He further says the Ministry has also consented to the redevelopment of Ratu Ganilau Park in partnership with the Fiji Sports Council where terms and conditions have been discussed by both parties.
The Minister says the Council will continue to explore public-private partnerships.
Nalumisa also says that as of 30 June 2025, the Town Council has collected 71.31 percent of the rates that were in arrears, and as part of efforts to boost revenue, 10 digital parking meters have been procured for Savusavu Town, with plans approved but awaiting gazetting.
Opposition MP Faiyaz Koya also highlighted that Savusavu as a port needs improved security arrangements to ensure it does not become a porous border.
Koya also says that from a tourism perspective, a sewage treatment plant is urgently needed.
He further says that the town's sporting facilities also need serious upgrades and perhaps the Prime Minister can identify funding to help Savusavu with its grounds and stadiums.
Koya adds that access to Savusavu—especially flights and transport infrastructure—requires urgent attention.
Meanwhile, Opposition MP and Deputy Chair of the Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defence which compiled the report, Rinesh Sharma says to tackle public safety issues, particularly drug-related threats, the Council is urged to implement community policing, rehab programs, and surveillance systems.
He says the Committee noted severe financial mismanagement from 2011 to 2015, including unaccounted land deals—one such parcel rose in value from $350,000 to over $7 million.
Sharma says independent investigations are recommended.
