The Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) has appointed a design consultant to design a repair solution for the Savusavu jetty in Vanua Levu that should guarantee a life span of five years.

FRA acting chief executive officer Robert Sen confirmed to Sun Shipping that the short term maintenance work is expected to be carried out on the jetty this month, and a long term solution to be seen by the end of this year.

“Once a finalised design is confirmed then appointed contractors will be able to carry out the maintenance work on the jetty,” Mr Sen said.

He was reacting to concerns raised by local shipping operators using the jetty daily – deeming it to be unsafe for use.  One of the operators Goundar Shipping Limited owner and managing director, George Goundar, had called on authorities to look into their concerns.

“The jetty is at the stage where it needs emergency repair as it looks like it is about to collapse and the safety of passengers and trucks are my concern,” he said.

Mr Sen also confirmed putting out a tender in the market and has since received a positive feedback from the local council.

“We acknowledge the congestion faced with the current set up and the FRA is considering its options on whether to proceed with a jetty at its existing location or relocate to another site.”

Mr Sen added that no decisions will be made yet until proper processes are undertaken.