The Local Area Traffic Management (LATM) trials launched by the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) in Nadi Town have garnered a variety of responses from both residents and commuters since their inception yesterday. These trials are designed to ease traffic congestion by implementing redesigned traffic flow configurations, which will involve demolishing and reconstructing certain existing structures.
As part of the trial phase, all traffic signals within the town area have been temporarily disabled. This has resulted in some frustration for local delivery drivers. Rajinesh Prasad from Danny’s Pte Limited highlighted his challenges: “I have to deliver to a few places before coming to town, but due to the one-hour traffic, I couldn’t deliver on time. This delay has even affected my lunch break.”
Conversely, local resident Penasio Bolekinaivalu noted some enhancements in traffic movement but recommended that the main street be widened to further alleviate congestion. He suggested, “I think FRA should clear all the car parks, pot plants, and palm trees on the main street to make the road wider.”
For regular commuter Rima Chand, the trial’s two-way traffic system has its benefits, particularly in fuel savings, though she acknowledges the drawback of extended travel times: “It will save fuel for drivers, but the downside is the long traffic, which took an hour on the road.” Others, like Janend Ram, have expressed a preference for the prior one-way system, citing its effectiveness in reducing downtown congestion.
The reconstruction phase of this trial will take place from November 23 to December 8, 2024, followed by a new layout trial lasting from December 8, 2024, to March 8, 2025.
Key changes to the traffic flow include the conversion of Queens Road to a single-lane two-way street, modifications to Andrews Road and Raniga Street for single-lane two-way traffic, and the reversal of the direction on Naitavo Lane for one-way traffic. Heavy vehicles will be restricted from the main street while still being allowed on Andrews Street, Raniga Street, and Ratu Naevo Road.
The FRA encourages residents to provide feedback on these trials in a bid to enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion in the long run, indicating a collaborative approach to urban traffic management that aims to improve the daily commuting experience for everyone involved.
In summary, while initial reactions to the LATM trials are mixed, there are voices of optimism and constructive suggestions aimed at enhancing the traffic flow in Nadi Town, reflecting a community willing to adapt and work towards better solutions. Engaging community feedback also creates a pathway for improvements that might lead to a more sustainable traffic system in the future.
Leave a comment