The Local Area Traffic Management (LATM) trials in Nadi Town, launched by the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA), have elicited a range of reactions from both residents and commuters. These trials are designed to ease traffic congestion by reshaping traffic flow layouts, which will include the demolition and reconstruction of some present structures.
As part of the trial, all traffic signals in the town have been temporarily deactivated. Delivery driver Rajinesh Prasad, who works for Danny’s Pte Limited, voiced his concerns about the delays brought on by these changes, stating that his deliveries were significantly hindered due to an hour-long traffic jam, impacting his ability to take breaks.
In contrast, local resident Penasio Bolekinaivalu noted some improvements in traffic flow. He suggested that the FRA should consider widening the main street by removing parking spaces, pot plants, and palm trees to enhance road capacity.
Commuter Rima Chand shared her perspective on the new two-way traffic system, acknowledging its potential to save fuel, while also noting that the traffic delays, which now take approximately one hour, remain a challenging aspect. Another commuter, Janend Ram, expressed a preference for the previous one-way system, asserting that it contributed to reducing congestion in the town.
The reconstruction process is scheduled to take place from November 23 to December 8, 2024, with the trial of the new layout set to run from December 8, 2024, to March 8, 2025.
Notable changes planned for the traffic layout include:
– Conversion of Queens Road (Main Street) to a single-lane two-way traffic system.
– Reconfiguration of Andrews Road and Raniga Street for single-lane two-way traffic.
– Reversal of traffic direction on Naitavo Lane to one-way traffic.
– Retention of single-lane one-way traffic on Sahu Khan Lane, Clay Street, and Market Lane.
– Direction reversal for optimized flow on Baker Lane and Vunavau Lane.
– Restrictions on heavy vehicles from the main street, allowing access on Andrews Street, Raniga Street, and Ratu Naevo Road.
The FRA is actively encouraging community feedback during these trials in pursuit of enhancing traffic flow and combatting congestion over the long term.
As Nadi Town undertakes this significant traffic management initiative, there is a sense of hope that these changes will ultimately lead to a more efficient and seamless transportation experience for residents and visitors alike. Engaging local voices in this process will be crucial in shaping a transport system that caters to everyone’s needs while promoting sustainable growth in the area.
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