The construction of the Fangaʻuta Lagoon Bridge project, a USD$55 million infrastructure development, set to transform connectivity between Nukuʻalofa and south-eastern Tongatapu is till delayed again.
The bridge, initially scheduled for completion this year, is now expected to be finished within the next three years.
The Ministry of Infrastructure confirmed that the construction bidding process has been completed, Geo-survey assessments finalized and procurement to start.
Funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and designed by Japanese firm Chodai, the project includes a 720-meter bridge and 4.96 kilometers of approach roads extending to Vaini.
The ADB said in a statement that the project aims to ease traffic congestion and shorten travel times for residents and commuters between Nukuʻalofa and southern Tongatapu.
It will also serve as an evacuation route to higher ground during tsunamis and extreme weather events and support the long-term relocation of communities affected by climate change.
