The Labasa bypass road project is a top priority, with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka emphasizing the need to initiate work soon. During recent discussions with the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA), he underlined the urgency of establishing dual access roads to Labasa Town due to the limitations of the existing one-way road network, which is unable to manage the current traffic flow effectively.
Mr. Rabuka recounted an incident where a fire in Labasa Town led to significant delays for fire crews due to the insufficient road access. He proposed converting the old rail bridge located next to the main bridge into a two-way road to enhance connectivity.
Concerns regarding the stalled progress of the bypass project have been raised by various stakeholders, particularly public transport providers. Sujit Sharma, the general secretary of the Labasa Town Taxi Association, expressed frustration about traffic congestion during peak hours. He highlighted that this congestion severely hampers taxi services and negatively affects local businesses.
During a public consultation with taxi drivers, FRA’s assets manager, Amit Deo, provided an update, indicating that the project is still in the management discussion phase. The estimated cost of the bypass road project is around $30 million, a figure disclosed after the Coalition Government took office. Mr. Deo acknowledged the complexity of the undertaking, stating that it would take time and is not an easy task to implement.
As negotiations continue between the town council and the government, stakeholders are hopeful for decisive progress as vehicle numbers continue to rise, highlighting the project’s importance in reducing congestion and supporting growth in Labasa. This renewed focus on infrastructure improvement reflects a commitment to addressing community needs and paving the way for future development.
The ongoing discussions signal a collaborative effort that, once realized, could greatly enhance transportation efficiency and economic growth in the region.
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