The Labasa bypass road project has been identified as a crucial priority, with Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka emphasizing the need for its initiation. During a meeting with the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA), Mr. Rabuka underscored the importance of creating dual access roads to and from Labasa Town due to the inadequacy of the existing one-way network, which struggles to accommodate heavy traffic flow.
He recounted a past incident where fire services were delayed in reaching Labasa Town due to restricted road access, which underlined the urgency for a more effective transportation route. To address this issue, the Prime Minister proposed transforming the old rail bridge next to the main bridge into a two-way road.
The slow progress of the bypass project has faced scrutiny from various stakeholders, particularly public transport providers who have expressed their frustrations regarding traffic congestion and subsequent delays in service. Sujit Sharma, general secretary of the Labasa Town Taxi Association, emphasized the critical need for the bypass, stating that peak periods exacerbate vehicular congestion, impacting taxi services and local businesses.
Amit Deo, assets manager at the FRA, acknowledged during a public consultation that the project is still in the discussion phase, revealing that the complex initiative is estimated to cost around $30 million since the Coalition Government took office. He conveyed that materializing the project will take time and is a challenging endeavor.
Despite the setbacks, there is optimism as discussions continue among stakeholders, with the understanding that the growth of Labasa and the rising number of vehicles necessitate the development of the bypass road. Stakeholders are hopeful for tangible progress, recognizing that the bypass could significantly ease congestion and support the town’s growth.
This project underscores the commitment of local leaders to address transportation challenges and improve the overall infrastructure, which is essential for economic growth and community well-being. As the government and council work collaboratively, the future prospects for Labasa appear bright, paving the way for better connectivity and enhanced services for residents.
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