A new 200m foreshore that extends along the coastal area in Pangai, Ha‘apai, is expected to be completed within six to 12-months replacing the existing foreshore that has been wrecked over the years by natural disasters.

The construction costing around $400,000 pa’anga is funded by the Government of Tonga through its Emergency Fund.

The 6 metre wide foreshore extends along the waterfront from the area facing the Governor’s Office to the King’s residence, Tau’akipulu.

The old foreshore had been badly damaged by strong winds in 2010 and again Tropical Cyclone Ian in January 2014 resulting in the partial erosion of the coastal area in high tides.

Prime Minister Hon ‘Akilisi Pohiva laid the foundation to mark the start of the work on 11 August said there is a big change in the foreshore today due to the work of nature and people should work together and do things for the future generations.

The Ministry of Infrastructure under civil engineer and Acting CEO Pesalili Tu'iano is carrying out the work.