Ratu Dovi Road Repairs
Several months ago, the Fiji Roads Authority commenced upgrades along Ratu Dovi Road from the Kinoya Road junction to the Nokonoko Road roundabout. This one-kilometer stretch saw bitumen removal and resealing. Unfortunately, the work abruptly stopped nearly a month ago without any public explanation. Recent light rain has worsened conditions, creating ruts and potholes. Besides routine peak-hour congestion, the incomplete work adds stress for motorists, with exposed concrete chambers lacking barriers or traffic cones causing vehicle damage. The recent $30 million budget cut for the FRA might be impacting this project. Satish Nakched, Suva
Feasting at GPH
If people like Honourable Bulitavu believe a budget licenses expenditure, they are mistaken. A budget, once approved, comes with conditions that must be met before use. The Finance Minister administers public funds but cannot act unilaterally. Ajai Kumar, Nadi
Road Material
FRA, how is there enough asphalt for speed bumps but not for filling potholes? My namesake encounters a pothole daily at Vomo Street near the Indus Street junction. Also, what materials were at Nawaka Road? Navneet Ram (TD), Lautoka
Smoke and Mirrors
Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad and ADB director general Ms. Gutierrez should win this year’s double Dutch award for public speaking (FT 2/08) regarding the $160.3 million loan for enhancing policies and frameworks for state-owned enterprises. Even wordsmith Dr. Paul Geraghty would struggle with this explanation. Terry Hulme, Russell St, Eastwood, NSW, Australia
Opportunity to Air Views
I’m not a constitutional expert, but can a referendum be held to let Fiji’s people vote on whether the current constitution is fair and representative? Or is there another way to change this system? Colin Deoki, Australia
Electronic Cigarette Sign
While driving a passenger, they started vaping despite being cautioned that it’s prohibited in taxis. They argued my “no smoking” sign didn’t mention vaping. Both traditional cigarettes and vapes emit harmful chemicals. It would help if authorities approved “no electronic cigarette” signs for public service vehicles. Shamal Chand, Kuku Bau Rd, Nausori
Water Leak
To the concerned authority: There has been a water leak for two and a half months at Vakabale Street. It seems no one is addressing it. Mohammed Abid, Razak Rd, Lautoka
Mock Parliament
During mock parliament sessions, were there any disruptions from members banging desks or interjecting? Mohammed Imraz Janif, Natabua, Lautoka
Bad Fijiana Outing
In true iTaukei and Pacific spirit, we should support Fijiana 7s despite their poor showing in the 2024 Olympics. While it’s disappointing, there’s another chance in four years to make amends. Congratulations to China for their remarkable improvement. I hope to see Fijiana 7s excel by the 2028 Olympics. Ronnie Chang, Martintar, Nadi
Honking Horns
The excessive honking of horns by irresponsible drivers needs regulation and should be limited to emergencies. The days of using horns to announce wedding processions are gone. Use them wisely. Tahir Ali, Hamilton, New Zealand
SCC Rates
I disagree with Altauf Chand from Minto, Australia about the unavailability of SCC rate notices for 2024-2025. I requested mine on August 1 and received it the next day via email. Vijay P Madhavan, Borron Rd, Suva
Australian Aid
Could the Fiji Government, with Australia’s permission, use some of the $86 million aid to re-open the Fiji Forrest Industries timber and plywood mill in Malau, Labasa? Its closure cost over 200 jobs. This re-opening would help employment. I urge the Australian High Commissioner to visit the site. Sukha Singh, Labasa
Chaudhry’s Comments
I agree with Mr. Chaudhry. What is there to celebrate when issues like drug cases, HIV, cost of living, and poverty are rising? These officials should be ashamed of themselves for celebrating with lavish dinners. Josefa Tuitubou, Lautoka
Burglars?
A bird and a pussycat? Penguin and Catwoman? Was Batman missing? Manoj Lal Patel, Drasa Avenue, Lautoka
Hamas Leader
I always thought Hamas leadership was on the front lines. Leaders lead from the front, especially where basic amenities are scarce. It’s food for thought. Chaos is often stoked by someone continuously. Mohammed Imraz Janif, Natabua, Lautoka
Rubbish Everywhere
MPs should tour Fiji to see the state of rubbish in our country. Riding public transport would give them a firsthand view. Asish Vinay Prasad, Park Rd, Raiwasa, Suva
WAF Response
The Water Authority of Fiji clarifies the recent low water pressure in the Namaka-Martintar corridor. This was due to major bursts on DN375 & DN300 trunk mains, causing water supply shifts to mitigate disruptions. Notifications were issued via SMS and the WAF Mobile App. Efforts to resolve these issues include valve operations and a $14.65 million upgrade to Nagado WTP’s capacity and trunk main improvements worth $7.54 million. A $2 million budget for feasibility studies will further address these problems. Peni Mitchell Shute, WAF spokesperson, Suva