Three new evacuation centres planned for Nambatri, Ohlen and Agathis

Jul 27, 2026 | Initiatives and Projects, News | 0

The Government is seeking approval from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to construct three new evacuation centres in Port Vila under the Greater Port Vila Urban Resilience Project (GPVURP) as part of efforts to strengthen disaster preparedness in the capital.

Speaking with the Daily Post, Minister of Internal Affairs Andrew Solomon Napuat said he had formally requested support for the proposed centres, which are planned for Nambatri, Ohlen and Agathis. “I had discussions with the ADB team and informed them that, through the Greater Port Vila Urban Programme, we want to build three more evacuation centres,” he said.

Minister Napuat acknowledged that while the proposal has been submitted, there are budget differences that require additional funding to complete the project.

“There are some differences in the proposed budget, which means there will need to be a top-up in funding. However, from my discussions with the ADB team and its development partners, I received a very positive response,” he said.

The Minister said he has been given a strong indication that the proposal will receive favourable consideration and will be presented to the ADB Board for formal approval.

“I have received a very good indication, which is essentially a ‘yes’. The request will now be taken to the ADB Board for approval. I had productive discussions with the Board representatives, directors and country office, and the conversations were very positive,” Napuat said.

If approved, the three new evacuation centres will be constructed in the Nambatri, Ohlen and Agathis areas of Port Vila.

“These are the proposed locations, and we are currently working to formalise the land arrangements where the evacuation centres will be built,” he said.

Napuat said preparations are already underway to ensure the land is secured so construction can begin immediately if the ADB Board approves the proposal.

“We need to complete all the necessary work to secure the land so that once the Board gives its approval, everything is ready and construction can commence without delay,” he said.

Beyond Port Vila, Napuat said the Government plans to expand the programme to other islands as part of its national disaster resilience strategy.

“After these three centres, we will begin extending the programme to other islands. One proposal is to build an evacuation centre in Malekula, while three or four additional centres are also planned for Tanna,” he said.

He said the initiative forms part of the Government’s broader commitment to providing safe shelters for communities during natural disasters.

“This programme is about providing safe houses and shelters that can accommodate people during times of disaster,” Napuat said.

The Minister added that the facilities are designed to serve communities year-round rather than only during emergencies.

“These buildings are not just for disasters. Communities will also be able to use them for meetings, community activities and other programmes. With support from the city council and local communities, they will be properly maintained so they remain in good condition and continue serving people both in normal times and during disasters,” he said.

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST

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