Nadi Town is undergoing a significant transformation as its main street shifts back to two-way traffic, a change that has been met with enthusiasm by many residents and local business owners. This move is expected to reduce congestion and improve accessibility throughout the area.
Local entrepreneurs are expressing a positive outlook regarding the change, acknowledging that it could enhance their business operations. Mohammed Azim Khan, a business owner, mentioned that while the initial adaptation has posed some difficulties, he is optimistic that normalcy will return soon.
Dineshwar Raju, owner of Raju’s Restaurant, is particularly excited about the reinstated two-way traffic. He noted that the previous one-way system hindered customer accessibility. Raju highlighted that, before the change, traffic flow was manageable when the streets were two-way, although he emphasized the necessity for improved traffic management to accommodate the rise in vehicles.
Despite the potential benefits of two-way traffic, some business owners have raised concerns about parking availability in Nadi Town. Several public parking meters have been occupied by taxi bases, and illegal taxi operators have monopolized most spots, leaving scant room for customers. This predicament has left local merchants anxious, compelling them to call on the Nadi Town Council to resolve these issues to support thriving businesses.
Further complicating the parking difficulties is a new garden and sitting area on the main street, which has reduced the number of customer parking spaces. While this beautification effort was intended to enhance the town’s appeal, it has inadvertently led to diminished parking availability, a factor that may ultimately harm businesses. If cars are parked for an average of 20 minutes, this garden could effectively displace up to 324 vehicles in nine hours, creating a significant barrier to customer access.
On a positive note, businessman Mubashir Khan noted that two-way traffic has enhanced customer access, making journeys to areas like the temple from Lautoka much simpler. The Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) is committed to gathering community feedback on this new traffic initiative, which aims to refine traffic management and improve the experience for all road users.
There is hope that as streetlights become operational and awareness of alternative routes spreads, traffic flow will improve, relieving congestion on the main street. Nadi Town’s transition to two-way traffic marks a hopeful chapter that could result in a more vibrant, accessible, and economically robust community. However, addressing the ongoing parking challenges will be vital in ensuring local businesses can fully benefit from these positive changes.
This community-led initiative represents a promising step toward fostering a more engaging and supportive environment for both residents and businesses alike.
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