Contractors working under the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) are currently grappling with significant challenges in managing road repair operations during the wet season, which spans from November to April. This period typically sees resources redirected towards emergency restoration efforts, which greatly affects their ongoing road rehabilitation initiatives.
The FRA noted that persistent rainfall has disrupted scheduled maintenance, compelling contractors to prioritize urgent repairs caused by flooding and water damage. “They face significant challenges in coordinating work as resources are diverted towards emergency restoration during this time,” the FRA stated.
In light of these challenges, the FRA is working to bolster the capabilities of its maintenance contractors across all sectors. One of the key initiatives is the advertisement of a new tender for road corridor maintenance, which was published on December 30, 2025, with a closing date set for February 2, 2026.
Plans are underway for contractors to commence overlay work at the Nasekula bridge as soon as weather conditions permit. In the interim, immediate safety measures are being implemented to improve conditions at this location, which are essential for facilitating smoother travel between the Nasekula bridge and Delailabasa.
However, the increasing number of potholes has been linked to excessive runoff from nearby villages directed towards the road and the bridge. The FRA explained, “The bridge is due for replacement, and the additional pothole issue is due to the amount of runoff from the village and nearby areas towards the road.”
The current road conditions are proving to be quite challenging for commuters. Mahen Prasad, chair of the Labasa Taxi Association, articulated the frustrations of drivers, pointing out that what usually takes 20 minutes now stretches to over an hour due to the need for increased caution on damaged roads. “It’s frustrating and costly for everyone,” he expressed.
Traffic congestion has escalated into a daily struggle for both commuters and business operators, with travel times tripling. The ramifications are also affecting emergency response vehicles like ambulances, increasing safety concerns. Prasad highlighted that many drivers are compelled to swerve or stop suddenly to navigate around potholes, consequently heightening the risk of accidents. A growing number of residents are urging relevant authorities to take swift action to repair the infrastructure before conditions deteriorate further.
Despite the difficult circumstances, the FRA’s proactive approach to addressing immediate safety concerns and long-term rehabilitation efforts could pave the way for enhanced road conditions in the future. This commitment to improvement offers a glimmer of hope for a better commuting experience ahead.