Severe traffic congestion along the Suva-Nausori corridor is again raising concerns, with the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) acknowledging that poor road design and inadequate traffic control are significant contributors. The current setup includes double bus lanes, missing signs, short bus bays, and poorly planned traffic lanes, which exacerbates congestion, particularly during peak hours.
FRA representative Taufa Vakamino emphasized that the existing conditions hinder smooth vehicular movement. For example, there are instances where two buses park in one bus bay, causing additional bottlenecks as one bus ends up on the road.
In response, the FRA is reviewing these issues in collaboration with the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and local police to implement improvements. “If we extend the bus bay, it will allow more buses to park and prevent them from blocking the roads,” Vakamino stated.
Additionally, residents from Nakasi have pointed out that the Wainibuku roundabout is also a safety concern, leading to frequent accidents. The FRA has committed to enhancing the safety and design of that roundabout as well.
The deployment of LTA and police officers along the corridor will increase in frequency, aiming for better traffic management and reduced delays as part of these improvements.
This renewed focus on traffic issues resonates with previous discussions in Parliament, where Transport Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau acknowledged the significant congestion problem. He outlined plans for infrastructure upgrades, such as increasing road capacity on key routes including Ratu Dovi Road, Fletcher Road, and Princes Road, which are expected to alleviate congestion in the future.
Residents can remain hopeful as these proactive measures aim to improve commuting experiences and overall traffic flow in the Suva-Nausori corridor. With careful planning and implementation, communities can look forward to a more efficient and safer transportation network in the near future.
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