The bridge in Labasa Town must be replaced because it’s unsafe, according to the town’s business community.
Cracks have been found on the bridge with some of them covered with pieces of timber.
While responding to this, Finance Minister Prof Biman Prasad said they were aware of the calls for the Government to repair the bridge.
“This will be up for discussion and the national budget could consider some deliberations in this project,” he said.
Prof Prasad told The Fiji Times they were committed to increasing budgetary allocations to infrastructure.
“These are issues that would be looked into,” he said.
Prof Prasad said the 2024-2025 budget would focus on improving the road network and bridges.
“This is especially for rural areas. This is to assist local communities access government services.”
While not all budgetary submissions would be considered, Prof Prasad said the utilisation of funds would be considered on immediate significant requests.
Meanwhile, the Fiji Roads Authority confirmed the bridge was on their top priority list.
The FRA confirmed it was part of the 40-bridge replacement program.
