Residents of the Suva-Nausori corridor are increasingly frustrated with the prolonged traffic congestion they experience daily. This pressing issue has prompted significant attention from the government, particularly in Parliament, where Transport Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau acknowledged the severity of the situation while responding to concerns raised by Opposition members.
Minister Tuisawau assured lawmakers that initiatives are in progress to tackle this traffic challenge, reflecting the Government’s broader goal of enhancing access to socio-economic opportunities. Essential infrastructure upgrades and long-term plans were outlined, with the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) collaborating on a comprehensive development strategy.
Key upgrades include the expansion of essential road networks, with projects planned for widening Ratu Dovi Road, Fletcher Road, and Princes Road. “These upgrades will significantly mitigate traffic congestion experienced in these vital corridors,” Minister Tuisawau stated.
Moreover, the FRA and the Public Works Department are exploring the establishment of new link roads, including plans for the Suva-Nausori Regional Road, designed to alleviate traffic pressures on existing routes. Upcoming projects involve creating connections from Wainibuku to Princes Road and developing links from Davuilevu Housing to Wainibuku, among others.
Significant work is also slated for King’s Road, where a four-lane expansion and the replacement of the Tamavua-i-Wai Bridge are underway with support from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
On a broader level, the Government is working with the New Zealand Government to develop a Transport Master Plan and Decarbonisation Implementation Strategy to address systemic issues in Fiji’s transport network. This comprehensive plan will include both short- and long-term solutions, such as implementing quotas on the number of vehicles on the roads. Minister Tuisawau emphasized that the rising number of vehicles is a contributing factor to infrastructure strain.
In an effort to modernize and sustain the transport system, the Government is revisiting public transport options, including a review of existing networks and the promotion of public transport use. A pilot for electric buses is also being considered, building on a proposal from a previous administration, with support from the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the Global Green Growth Institute. Additionally, plans for a shuttle service aimed at reducing congestion in high-traffic areas are in the pipeline.
As these initiatives unfold, they promise to reshape the Suva-Nausori corridor, easing the daily bottlenecks faced by commuters. Although residents might have to cope with traffic for some time longer, the progress being made symbolizes a positive shift toward smoother commutes and enhanced connectivity for all Fijians. In summary, the Government’s proactive approach holds promise for a brighter transportation future.
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