THE work of the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) directly after Severe TC Winston opened up opportunities for better assessments and for aid to reach those in adversely affected areas.
Lautoka City Council CEO Jone Nakauvadra made the comments while opening the FRA’s Information Forum in Nadi this week.
The conference was attended by various stakeholders to discuss the roles of the FRA as well as to promote more inclusive and sustainable developments across Fiji.
“Within three days, the whole primary road network was more or less open, providing supply routes and emergency access across both of the main islands,” said Mr Nakauvadra, referring to the damage left behind by Severe TC Winston.
“Within five days, all the major jetties on Viti Levu and Vanua Levu were ready for use, allowing inter-island transport of people and goods.
“These jetties were also critical for providing supply and emergency access to the badly hit outer islands.”
Mr Nakauvadra said the FRA also contributed a lot to the restoration of electricity and communication as they worked closely with the FEA to assist with their access needs.
Despite all these efforts, he said, there was still a lot more work to be done, which was why the forum was timely.
“Delivering effective and safe transport systems requires a full picture of the needs and demands — current and future — of all the respective road users, businesses and government agencies.
“This informational forum is a demonstration of Fiji Roads Authority’s commitment to improved stakeholder communication.”
He said building a secure road infrastructure network was one of the priorities of the Fijian Government and the FRA would continue to improve the quality of the road infrastructure and services in rural and urban areas.
