Fiji Bus Operators Association General Secretary Rohit Latchan says the bus industry in Fiji will be affected by the fire which destroyed the PA Lal Building in Walu Bay on Monday because almost 90% of the bus companies depend on PA Lal for their coach works.
He says PA Lal has been making buses which are suitable for road conditions in Fiji for more than 70 years now.
Latchan also says there is a company in Ba which provides similar services however he does not believe it will be able to accommodate the demands of all bus companies in the country.
PA Lal Limited owner, Richard Lal says catering for its employees and providing services to its customers is the main priority for the company.
He adds all efforts and energy are being put into ensuring normal operations resume as soon as possible.
Lal also says they are negotiating at various places for renting but concedes that they may have to use more than one spot because they are unable to find a place large enough to house the whole operation.
When asked about the employees, Lal says some are still doing odd jobs with the company while the rest have been sent home on payroll until the company resumes operations.
He also says the cause of the fire is still unknown as they are still waiting for the National Fire Authority’s investigation report.
ADVERTISEMENT
