LIFOU, LE

English Lifu Island largest (462 sq mi [1,196 sq km]) and most populous of the Loyalty Islands in the French overseas territory of New Caledonia, southwestern Pacific Ocean. It is the central island of the group. Lifou rises no higher than 200 ft (60 m). The coral limestone creates a fertile soil but also precludes the existence of surface streams, so that fresh water can be found only in caves and wells. The inhabitants grow taro, yams, and bananas and produce copra for export. Chpnh, on the west coast's Baie du Sandal (Sandal Bay), is the chief town and administrative centre. Pop. (1981 est.) 8,358.