Traffic congestion has returned to urban centers across Fiji, coinciding with the start of the second term of school on May 21. Commuters experienced significant gridlock, particularly in high-density areas such as Nadera and Nakasi, where short trips can take up to an hour during peak hours. Many have voiced concerns, with suggestions including halting vehicle imports as a remedy to control the number of cars on the roads.
Cab driver Manoj Kumar expressed his frustrations regarding the returning congestion, which he attributes to an ongoing influx of imported vehicles. This sentiment resonates across the community as residents seek solutions to navigate the impending traffic chaos when school is in session.
Earlier this year, concerns were raised during a public consultation led by Land Transport Authority (LTA) CEO Irimaia Rokosawa regarding traffic flow bottlenecks on the Suva-Nausori corridor. At this meeting, attendees proposed various measures, including capping the importation of second-hand vehicles and adjusting school hours to alleviate traffic during peak periods.
Many residents are calling for patience among drivers, particularly taxi and bus operators, urging everyone to adhere to traffic laws and respect fellow road users during these challenging times. Despite the frustrations teeming in urban traffic, the community’s active engagement in seeking solutions presents a promising avenue for addressing congestion in the future.
The LTA is under pressure to reassess policies around vehicle imports and public transportation systems, as suggested by ongoing discussions and community feedback. With increased vehicle registrations projected, there is hope that comprehensive traffic management strategies, including public transportation improvements, will be implemented to enhance commuter experiences across Fiji.
Collective action and understanding can pave the way for productive discussions, leading to the development of sustainable policies that ultimately benefit the mobility of all Fijians, fostering better travel conditions.
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