Fiji is grappling with severe traffic congestion, especially along the Suva-Nausori corridor. To address this escalating issue, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has proposed measures including setting a limit on the number of vehicles each household can own and imposing caps on the importation of used motor vehicles. LTA CEO Irimaia Rokosawa stated these concerns arose during a public consultation session, where it was noted that the number of registered vehicles rose from 144,000 to 154,000 between 2022 and last year, a worrying trend that exacerbates traffic flow bottlenecks.
Rokosawa emphasized the importance of considering the island nation’s unique challenges, stating, “Road infrastructure should coincide with the importation of vehicles.” He reiterated the necessity to find a balanced solution, suggesting that luxury vehicle ownership should be regulated to prevent further complications for the general population. The CEO also highlighted ongoing illegal operations linked to households with too many vehicles, calling attention to a need for better enforcement of traffic regulations.
In light of these proposals, local residents have also voiced frustration during consultations about worsening traffic, suggesting a variety of potential solutions to alleviate congestion. Ideas such as staggered work hours, adjusting school schedules, and stricter regulations on heavy vehicle usage during peak hours were proposed by the community. These suggestions echo the sentiments of residents from previous discussions, reinforcing a growing awareness and proactive engagement concerning traffic management.
Moreover, the LTA has been urged to implement an end-of-life vehicle policy and revamp recycling programs to address the influx of aging and potentially unsafe vehicles on the roads. Thus, as the government works on enhancing transportation infrastructure and managing traffic flow better, it signals a commitment to long-term improvements that could lead to a more efficient and sustainable transport system in Fiji.
While the situation may seem daunting, the ongoing dialogue between authorities and residents indicates a collective desire for better mobility solutions. With community involvement and fresh regulatory measures, there is hope for a future where traffic congestion could be significantly reduced, ultimately providing more manageable commuting experiences for all Fijians.
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