The Local Area Traffic Management (LATM) trials launched in Nadi Town by the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) have elicited varied reactions from the local community. The initiative is designed to address traffic congestion through a reconfiguration of traffic layouts, necessitating the removal and renovation of existing structures.
During this trial period, traffic signals in the town have been temporarily disabled, prompting a range of experiences from residents and commuters. For instance, delivery driver Rajinesh Prasad from Danny’s Pte Limited voiced his frustration, noting that the changes led to significant delays. “I have to deliver to a few places before coming to town, but due to the one-hour traffic, I couldn’t deliver on time. This delay has even affected my lunch break,” he mentioned.
On the other hand, local resident Penasio Bolekinaivalu reported an improvement in traffic flow but proposed that widening the main street could further enhance the situation. “I think FRA should clear all the car parks, pot plants, and palm trees on the main street to make the road wider,” he stated.
Commuter Rima Chand commented on the advantages of the two-way traffic system, which could potentially save fuel, though she acknowledged the downside of prolonged travel times, highlighting that it took her an hour to navigate the roads. Conversely, Janend Ram prefers the town’s existing one-way system, arguing it reduces congestion.
The reconstruction phase is scheduled to take place between November 23 and December 8, 2024, followed by a trial of the new layout from December 8 to March 8, 2025. Significant changes include the conversion of Queens Road to single-lane two-way traffic and reconfigurations on Andrews Road and Raniga Street for similar traffic management.
The FRA is actively soliciting feedback from residents to refine the traffic management approach and alleviate congestion over the long term.
In summary, while the LATM trials face some opposition, they also present an opportunity for constructive feedback and potential improvements to Nadi Town’s infrastructure. This initiative may ultimately lead to a more efficient traffic flow, benefiting the community as a whole. The FRA’s commitment to involving residents in the process is a positive step towards finding a long-lasting solution.
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