Community representatives Mereoni Naimawi and Silina Tavodi told fijivillage News that the poor condition of the settlement’s access road remains one of the community’s biggest struggles.
In response to questions from fijivillage News, the Fiji Roads Authority says it carried out another inspection of the area on Monday and confirmed that the road is generally in fair condition.
However, FRA acknowledged that the 130-metre steep concrete section on Valenicina Road leading to the upper section of the settlement has experienced isolated pavement settlement, creating difficulties for low-profile vehicles to pass through safely.
The authority says its maintenance responsibility currently extends only up to the end of the concrete strip on Valenicina Road.
The settlement is located about a 20-minute drive from Suva, followed by a steep five-minute walk uphill into the community.
When questioned whether they are aware of the residents' concerns, FRA says they are not aware of the specific fundraising claims raised by residents.
The authority also confirmed that sealing works for the road are included within its longer-term five-year planning programme.
However, FRA says current priorities are focused on villages and settlements heavily affected by excessive dust from unsealed roads while balancing limited funding and nationwide infrastructure needs.
FRA says road upgrades across the country are prioritised based on factors such as road condition, traffic usage, safety risks, accessibility and community impact.
FRA adds that it plans to repair the worst affected sections of the concrete strip on Valenicina Road under its routine maintenance programme to improve safety and accessibility.
The authority also stressed that roads outside its designated road network jurisdiction do not fall under its maintenance responsibility.
We have sent questions to the Minister for Public Works Ro Filipe Tuisawau. He is yet to repond.
