Following the damage caused by heavy rain and flooding due to Tropical Cyclone Urmil, the Fiji Roads Authority has activated emergency response measures and mobilized contractors to begin immediate restoration works.
While responding to questions by fijivillage News, FRA says flooding has significantly impacted the country’s road infrastructure, particularly rural road networks and low-level crossings, with many experiencing approach washouts and debris blockages in water channels.
FRA says initial assessments indicate a number of roading infrastructure damage across the Western and Northern Division which include under slips, over slips, approach washouts at crossings and cases of approach scouring at certain crossings.
They say their teams are prioritizing debris clearance and the reopening of key routes to restore essential connectivity across affected areas.
FRA says temporary access solutions are also being implemented, where applicable, at critical crossings to facilitate safe passage while permanent repairs are planned.
The Authority says their coordinated response aims to restore safe and accessible transportation networks swiftly.
FRA stresses restoration works are currently underway; however, the completion timeline remains dependent on weather conditions.
They say during periods of heavy rainfall or adverse weather, works cannot be carried out safely or effectively, which may cause delays in progress.
FRA adds teams will continue restoration efforts as weather permits, and works will be carried out as quickly as possible to restore the affected infrastructure and ensure safe access for road users.
As restoration works and assessment continue, FRA is yet to provide the cost of the damages sustained.
