Transport accessibility for persons with disabilities remains a major challenge in Fiji, with advocates calling for policies to move beyond paper commitments and be fully implemented on the ground.
The issue was raised by Kolinio Cagi, representing the National Council for Persons with Disabilities and the Spinal Injury Association under the Fiji Mobility Alliance, during the National Transport Infrastructure Consultative Forum on building a resilient, sustainable and inclusive transport system.
Mr Cagi said transportation continued to be one of the biggest barriers for persons with disabilities, particularly wheelchair users.
“Under Article 9, we have our rights to accessibility,” he said, adding that while accessibility is clearly outlined in national policies, implementation remains lacking.
“We have our rights to access information and transportation, but it’s sad to see that we have come this far and yet those are not implemented,” he said.
He welcomed the involvement of the Maritime and Transport Authority, describing it as a positive step towards improving inclusive transport.
“I believe this is a great initiative working towards that and finding ways to improve this.”
Sharing a personal experience, he recalled having to be physically carried onto vessels during sea travel in 2010, stressing that disability should be treated as a rights issue, not charity.
Meanwhile, Fiji Roads Authority chief executive officer Apisai Ketenilagi said plans are underway to upgrade existing jetties into climate-resilient facilities with modern berthing and handling infrastructure.
A total of 22 new jetties are proposed, including 16 in the Eastern Division, three in the Western Division and three in the Northern Division.
