Residents of Khalsa Road in Tacirua, near Suva, are raising alarm over the poor state of their road, which is plagued by potholes and inadequate maintenance. This ongoing issue has led to considerable vehicle damage and raised safety concerns for both drivers and pedestrians, particularly children.
Local resident Neli Vasu described her experiences, detailing how potholes have not only damaged her vehicle but also posed serious threats to her family’s safety, especially at night. These hazardous conditions have prompted concerns that drivers swerving to avoid these potholes might create accidents near homes.
Reports indicate that vehicle owners have experienced various types of damage due to the road’s condition, including punctured tires, damaged suspension systems, and worse—potential undercarriage and engine issues. Similarly, taxi operator Nanise Rokodra pointed out that the potholes have significantly impacted her business, leading to costly repairs for damaged vehicles. She noted that sudden maneuvers to dodge potholes can often result in accidents, further complicating safety in the area.
Another local voice, Lagi Rokovui, highlighted an additional concern: flooding exacerbated by potholes, which collect rainwater and disrupt traffic flow. He pointed out that consistent pothole repairs draw on local resources and increase public spending, suggesting that immediate action is necessary to prevent the situation from worsening.
The plight is not isolated to Khalsa Road. Recently, similar issues have arisen at the Suva Bus Stand, with bus operators noting deteriorating conditions following heavy rainfall and requesting urgent intervention from authorities.
Authorities in Suva face ongoing challenges related to road maintenance, influenced by budget constraints, rapid urbanization, and inclement weather conditions. The persistent issues call for a focused response from the Fiji Roads Authority to ensure safer roads for all residents.
As the community remains hopeful for positive action from local authorities, these concerns highlight the broader need for infrastructure investment in the region, emphasizing the role that well-maintained roads play in public safety and local business vitality.
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