Poor road conditions and delayed government responses to infrastructure failures are increasing the cost of living for Fijians, Opposition MP Ketan Lal told Parliament yesterday.
Contributing to the 2026-2027 National Budget debate, Mr Lal questioned why major funding continued to be allocated to public works while roads across the country remained in poor condition.
“One of the largest allocations in this budget goes to public works, yet the Labasa to Savusavu highway and the roads of Taveuni remain obstacle courses,” he said.
Mr Lal said deteriorating roads were forcing motorists and farmers to bear additional costs that were eventually passed on to consumers.
“Motorists pay hundreds, sometimes thousands, repairing suspensions and tyres.
“Farmers pay more to move their produce, and every one of those costs lands on the consumer’s plate.”
He described poor roads as more than an inconvenience.
“Bad roads are not just a nuisance, they are a hidden tax on the cost of living.”
He said the problem extended beyond the Northern Division, claiming communities in the Central, Western and Eastern divisions faced similar challenges.
“Budgets rise every year, the potholes remain.
“Taxpayers who faithfully pay the road levy deserve to see it in the road beneath their wheels, not swallowed by a ministry that delivers press releases instead of tar.”
Mr Lal also criticised the Government’s response to the shipping disruption that affected Taveuni.
“When Taveuni’s shipping lifeline broke down, what did this Government do? It waited.
“A Government that acts only when shamed into it is not governing, it is reacting.”
