Concerns regarding the deteriorating infrastructure in Suva have prompted renewed demands for clearer accountability in the maintenance of the capital city. Business leaders and city officials are expressing their frustration over ongoing delays and the overlapping responsibilities of various government agencies.
Residents and retailers have criticized the city’s uneven footpaths, crooked walkways, and ongoing sewage problems, stating that these issues are negatively impacting business operations and public safety. Jitesh Patel, President of the Suva Retailers Association, has voiced particular disappointment in the lack of visible initiatives from the Fiji Roads Authority, which has prompted calls for action. “We haven’t seen anything done by Fiji Roads Authority,” Patel remarked, stressing that while there have been discussions about the Suva City Council taking over responsibility, those discussions have not translated into action.
Responsibility for maintaining Suva’s infrastructure currently falls to multiple entities, such as the Fiji Roads Authority and the Water Authority of Fiji, which often leads the Council to point fingers at these agencies when issues arise. Critics argue that this fragmented approach creates confusion and hampers accountability.
Tevita Boseiwaqa, the Acting Chief Executive Officer for the Suva City Council, acknowledged the challenges presented by multiple agencies overseeing different parts of the city. He expressed support for consolidating responsibility under the Council, stating that managing infrastructure under a single authority could streamline decision-making and accelerate improvements to roadways, footpaths, and essential services.
Retailers have indicated that their main concern is not which body oversees the maintenance, but rather the need for visible and practical improvements. Patel highlighted that businesses have faced prolonged delays while discussions on accountability continued without sufficient results.
Minister for Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, assured that steps are being taken to revert ownership of infrastructure back to municipal councils. He noted that efforts are underway to refine the memorandum of agreement with the involved institutions and expressed hope that these services could be returned to the municipal councils before the upcoming Municipal Elections.
These developments highlight a collective desire for more effective infrastructure management in Suva, fostering optimism for a more coordinated approach that may lead to enhanced public safety and economic activity in the capital city.
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