GOVERNMENT is considering a range of measures, including adjusted working hours and a proposed ferry service, as part of efforts to address growing traffic congestion between Nausori and Suva.
Minister for Public Works and Transport Ro Filipe Tuisawau confirmed that a taskforce was actively reviewing suggestions put forward by civil servants and private sector employees.
“Look at the variation in working hours, school hours. The taskforce is looking into that at the moment. Definitely, that’s an area we are considering,” he said.
The proposal to shift working hours to 11am has been raised as a possible way to ease peak-hour traffic, which continues to burden commuters daily.
Meanwhile, Government is also assessing a maritime alternative following a proposal by George Gounder of Gounder Shipping to introduce a ferry service between Nausori and Suva.
Mr Tuisawau said the idea was under active consideration but noted that further groundwork was required before any decision could be made.
“Yes, that’s definitely one of the options the ministry is looking into.”
“And also with the other various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Trade and Commerce.”
“But we are currently looking at, in terms of other options, there needs to be supporting infrastructure. So that’s also being looked at in terms of visibility and the costing.”
He said discussions with stakeholders were ongoing as Government explored practical and sustainable solutions to traffic congestion.
