Bus Services Halted: A Community’s Struggle with Road Woes

Bus services on the Vatukoula back road were suspended for four days due to hazardous conditions. Lautoka General Transport, which operated the route from Vusavusa Junction near Ba Town, was forced to halt operations because of the road’s deteriorating state. After the suspension, the Public Works Department mobilized a grader to begin repairs from the junction.

Despite the efforts to improve the road conditions, a local resident expressed concerns that the lack of gravel post-grading, compounded by potential rainy weather, could lead to further deterioration. Radhan Prasad, a cane farmer, shared that he and fellow farmers had to transport their market produce on foot to the junction, approximately 400 meters away, to access bus services. Following some upgrades, the bus was able to reach as far as Bulabula School before needing to return to Ba.

Prasad noted that heavy rains had exposed boulders beneath the road, which worried drivers about potential damage to their buses. Another resident, Sunil Chand, echoed this sentiment, stating the road had been in disrepair for over a year and had worsened with continuous rainfall.

With the school year approaching, Mr. Prasad expressed hope that the road upgrades would be completed in time for children who rely on buses for transportation. Road Transport Department officials were reported to be inspecting the area to assess the situation.

This situation highlights the ongoing infrastructure challenges in the region, but it also illustrates the resilience and determination of the local community in advocating for necessary improvements. With the appropriate attention from authorities, there is hope for better transportation and access for residents in the near future.

Summary: Bus services on the Vatukoula back road were suspended for four days due to poor road conditions, prompting government intervention. Local farmers voiced concerns over transportation challenges, especially with the school year approaching. There is optimism for road upgrades to improve access for the community.