Several crossings in the Cakaudrove province that require significant upgrades will be part of the government’s rehabilitation efforts conducted through the Fiji Roads Authority. In response to a request from Opposition member Naisa Tuinaceva for an update during Parliament last Tuesday, Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau stated that these access points would be considered for inclusion in the FRA’s capital projects planned for 2024.
“We, as a Government, are very open to discussions regarding these crossings, especially because I have emphasized to both the FRA and my ministry the importance of addressing the needs of communities facing issues with these access points, particularly those involving school children, women, and the general public that can be resolved quickly,” Ro Filipe remarked.
He highlighted the Viane crossing in the Navatu district as a key example. “While we haven’t specifically allocated funds for it, we are evaluating its inclusion within the ministry and the FRA,” he said. He noted that the crossing is coastal and susceptible to impacts from high tides, which will also be a factor in their considerations.
Additionally, the minister mentioned that the Nakawaga crossing in the Koroalau district has been pushed to next year’s budget. “This crossing forms part of the larger Nukubuno to Navakuru Rural Roads Program, connecting Labasa to Savusavu and providing an alternative route between the two areas,” he stated.