Plans to construct a 13-storey apartment building in Vatuwaqa, Suva, which includes 11 parking spaces, have ignited significant backlash from local residents. Critics are particularly outraged over the $5-per-page fee imposed to access Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) reports, deeming it both unreasonable and unfair.
Adrienne Ali, a resident who expressed her concerns at a recent public consultation, highlighted the financial burden this fee creates. “Some of these reports are 500 pages long, and if you want a copy so you can go home, read it, and research it, you have to pay $5 a page,” she commented. “That’s the minimum wage in Fiji; you’re basically asking people to give up eating so they can access information.”
Furthermore, Ms. Ali questioned the absence of these documents online, suggesting that modern technology could facilitate easier access. “We are on electronic everything nowadays; what’s the harm in putting it on your website? What have you got to hide?” she asked.
Beyond the financial implications, residents have raised alarms regarding the existing infrastructure in Suva, which is already straining under the current demands. Ms. Ali pointed to persistent issues such as intermittent water supply, electricity outages, and heavy traffic congestion. She recounted a recent fire incident in Toorak, where emergency services struggled due to inadequate water pressure despite having 13 firefighters and three trucks on the scene. This situation prompted her to stress the necessity for addressing traffic congestion, water supply, electricity, drainage, and emergency access before any further construction approvals are made.
As the community voices its concerns about this proposed development, it highlights the importance of ensuring sustainable urban planning that respects both the current infrastructure limitations and the community’s right to access critical information.
Leave a comment