Opposition Member of Parliament Ketan Lal has expressed serious concerns regarding the poor condition of the road adjacent to Savusavu Airport.
Lal, a local resident, noted that this vital roadway has been downgraded from a tar-sealed surface to gravel by road authorities, leading to a rise in accidents and an increase in harmful dust affecting both drivers and local residents.
He stated that this problem underscores the neglect of infrastructure and raises questions about the priorities and financial management of the Coalition Government.
“Savusavu is a thriving tourism destination that draws visitors worldwide who come to enjoy its unique beauty and charm. The airport is one of only two airstrips facilitating air travel to the island. The state of the road leading to this airport is not merely a local concern; it is a national issue,” he said.
“A smooth and safe road is crucial to support our tourism industry, a vital component of our economy that sustains the livelihoods of countless Fijians,” he added.
Lal highlighted the dire consequences of the road’s transformation to gravel, including increased accidents that threaten the safety of residents and dust pollution that poses health risks and disturbances for those living nearby.
“This is not just a minor inconvenience; it represents a fundamental failure to deliver safe and reliable infrastructure, which is a basic duty of any government,” he remarked.
He is demanding accountability from the Fiji Roads Authority regarding this decision and questioned whether they are short of the necessary funds for proper road maintenance.
Lal criticized Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka for spending funds on lavish dinners that could have been used to reseal the essential road, which would have provided significant benefits to the community instead of temporary luxury.
“This situation reflects misplaced priorities and a lack of accountability. The government’s responsibility is to serve the people by ensuring their safety and well-being. Neglecting crucial infrastructure like roads indicates a disregard for these duties,” he stated.
Lal urged the government to promptly resolve the issue by allocating necessary funds to the Fiji Roads Authority for the road’s resealing beside Savusavu Airport. “This isn’t merely about repairing a road; it is about restoring public trust in our leadership and showing commitment to the well-being of all Fijians,” he concluded.