The project to construct a bypass road in Labasa has been reaffirmed as a top priority by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka. During recent discussions with the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA), he stressed the necessity for the work to begin, highlighting that the current one-way road system is inadequate for handling the area’s traffic flow.
Mr. Rabuka referenced a previous incident where fire crews experienced delays in responding to a fire due to limited access on existing roads, underscoring the urgency behind the need for dual access to and from Labasa Town. He proposed that the former rail bridge adjacent to the main bridge be developed to support a two-way road network.
Concerns regarding the stagnation of the bypass project have been raised by various stakeholders, particularly public transport providers who are expressing their frustrations over traffic congestion and the resulting delays in services. Sujit Sharma, general secretary of the Labasa Town Taxi Association, emphasized the challenges faced during peak times, stating that a surge in vehicle numbers exacerbates congestion and negatively affects local businesses.
At a public consultation with local taxi drivers, FRA assets manager Amit Deo indicated that the bypass project is still in the management discussion phase. With an estimated budget of $30 million, the FRA acknowledged that the implementation of this significant project will take considerable time and effort.
As discussions between the town council and the government progress, the urgency for concrete advancements is evident. The increasing number of vehicles and ongoing developments in Labasa highlight the critical nature of the bypass road in alleviating congestion and promoting growth in the area.
In light of these challenges, there is a sense of hope that with continued dialogue and planning, the bypass road project could soon transform into a reality, providing the community of Labasa with improved infrastructure and support for future development.
Leave a comment