The Government is intensifying community consultations in the eastern and northern regions of Mauritius to gather public views and address concerns ahead of the implementation of the M4 Motorway project.
In this context, the Minister of National Infrastructure, Mr Govindranath Gunness, chaired a consultation meeting at the Lady Sushil Ramgoolam Social Welfare Centre in Caroline, bringing together residents and stakeholders of the region. The Minister of Information Technology, Communication and Innovation, Dr Avinash Ramtohul, and other officials were also present.
Speaking after the meeting, Minister Gunness highlighted Government’s commitment to transparency and public participation in the preparation of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report for the project.
Although the M4 Motorway project has been exempted from the requirement for an EIA certificate since 2021, Government has nevertheless opted to prepare and submit an EIA report. The ongoing consultations provide an opportunity for residents to express their concerns and suggestions, which will be considered as part of the preparation of the report. Further consultations are scheduled to take place in Flacq and Rivière du Rempart.
Regarding the implementation of the project, Minister Gunness stated that discussions and exchanges of documents are ongoing with the Export-Import Bank of India and the Government of India. The project is reportedly at an advanced stage, with the financing agreement already signed, while the Detailed Project Report is awaited. The report will also contribute to the preparation of the EIA.
The Minister welcomed the strong interest expressed by residents of the eastern region, particularly their emphasis on environmental and ecological considerations. He further stated that the M4 Motorway will be developed in accordance with international standards and will be the first motorway in Mauritius to pass through rural regions.
