The Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association is supporting the Land Transport Authority in the implementation of trial measures to tackle traffic congestion along the Suva-Nausori corridor.
The Association says traffic congestion has consistently posed challenges for businesses, employees, and visitors, particularly during peak hours along the Suva-Nausori, Lautoka-Nadi, and Sigatoka-Nadi corridors.
They say inadequate urban planning and significant gaps in affordable housing accessibility forces many employees to reside far from their workplaces, resulting in longer commutes and a diminished quality of life.
The Association believes the trial measures which include slip lanes, traffic light optimisation, and restrictions on right turns are the first of several steps that must be taken.
CEO Fantasha Lockington says these measures should also be extended to Nadi, which is facing similar peak-hour traffic challenges. She says discussions are focusing on staggered work and school hours, improved public transport systems, and vehicle import regulations.
Lockington says policymakers should consider addressing the fundamental reasons behind these challenges that have emerged in the first place.
She says these issues will continue to exacerbate road fatalities, the frequency and cost of traffic accidents, and the overall impact on productivity.
