The Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Fiji is currently developing an end-of-life policy for vehicles on the nation’s roads, considering both environmental impacts and the sustainable disposal of older vehicles. This initiative follows recent public consultations focused on traffic congestion, particularly along the busy Suva-Nausori corridor, which has reported significant increases in vehicle registrations, reaching a total of 154,000 in a population of under one million.
LTA CEO Irimaia Rokosawa emphasized the necessity for a regulated timeframe for vehicle disposal while also discussing the cultural attachment some owners have to their older models. “Many are sentimental about their vehicles, which can lead to issues if they are no longer roadworthy. It’s crucial that we target high-emission vehicles in this policy,” he said during the consultation.
Rokosawa highlighted the gaps in existing disposal and recycling programs, asserting that any new policy must incorporate measures for proper disposal processes rather than simply dumping vehicles in the ocean. He also pointed to the importance of implementing proper battery recycling programs, especially as hybrid vehicles become more common in Fiji.
This ongoing push for a robust policy comes amid frustrations over rising traffic congestion, exacerbated by the addition of over 10,000 new vehicles registered in just the last two years. Residents have proposed various solutions to combat the traffic woes, including adjusting school hours and staggering work times to alleviate rush hour pressures.
Transport Minister Naisa Tuinaceva has echoed these sentiments, urging the public to adopt more sustainable travel habits, such as using public transport and carpooling. Combined with improved infrastructure and regulatory oversight, these efforts aim to create a safer and more efficient transport network in Fiji.
The government’s commitment to addressing these transportation challenges represents a proactive approach, promising a brighter future for urban mobility. As Fiji looks toward enhancing its transport policy and infrastructure, there is hope that these measures will lead to improved commuting experiences and reduced traffic congestion for all residents.
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