Ketan Lal, an Opposition Member of Parliament, has expressed his serious concerns regarding the poor condition of the road adjacent to Savusavu Airport. Lal, a local resident, noted that this vital roadway has been downgraded from a tar-sealed surface to gravel by the relevant authorities. This change has led to a rise in accidents and has created significant dust issues that affect both motorists and nearby residents.
He emphasized that this situation illustrates a neglect of infrastructure and raises critical questions about the priorities and financial oversight of the Coalition Government.
“Savusavu is a thriving tourism destination, drawing visitors from across the globe to experience its unique beauty and allure. The airport serves as one of the two airstrips that support air travel to the island. The deteriorating road leading to this important entry point is not merely a local concern; it is a national issue,” he stated.
“A smooth, secure, and dependable road is crucial for our tourism sector, which is essential to our economy and supports the livelihoods of many Fijians,” he added.
Lal pointed out that the transformation of this road into gravel has resulted in severe ramifications. The increase in accidents poses a substantial risk to public safety, while the dust created by passing vehicles presents both a health hazard and an annoyance to local residents.
“This is more than an inconvenience; it represents a significant failure to deliver safe and dependable infrastructure, which is a fundamental duty of any government,” he asserted.
He is demanding clarification from the Fiji Roads Authority regarding this decision and questioned whether they lacked the necessary funds for proper road maintenance.
“The money spent by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka on a lavish dinner could have been better used to resurface this critical road, yielding genuine benefits for the community instead of momentary indulgence,” he remarked.
He described the situation as indicative of misaligned priorities and a lack of accountability. “The role of the government is to serve the populace, ensuring their safety and well-being. The neglect of essential infrastructure such as roads reflects a disregard for these obligations.”
Lal is calling on the government to swiftly resolve this issue by providing the necessary funds to the Fiji Roads Authority for the road’s resealing. “This is not just about repairing a road; it is about restoring trust in our leadership and showing a dedication to the well-being of all Fijians,” Lal concluded.