A Japanese survey team met with Tonga’s Ministry of Infrastructure (MOI) officials to discuss plans for reinforcing and elevating the Nuku’alofa foreshore as part of strengthening key infrastructure against natural disasters.
The proposed project spans from Sopu village in the west to Patangata village in the east, aiming to protect lives and property from coastal erosion, flooding and impact of tsunamis.

The foreshore structure, originally made of concrete, suffered extensive damage during Cyclone Isaac in 1982. Though some repair work has been done over the years, the area remains in need of significant maintenance.
Tropical Cyclones Gita and Harold further exacerbated the damage, affecting both the foreshore and the properties along it.

The Japanese delegation, led by Mr. Tsuyoshi Nagasawa, together with local counterparts from the Japan International Cooperation Association (JICA) office met with MOI CEO, Lopeti Heimuli and his team.

This initiative is part of Japan’s broader support for Tonga’s infrastructure development, which includes projects such as the extension and construction of Fua’amotu Airport, the Nuku’alofa foreshore, and the main road connecting the airport to Nuku’alofa.