Letters To The Editor, January 13th 2018

Joy for new bridges
Neelz Singh, Lami
Our belated and big New Year’s gift came just in time before schools open next week.
The opening of Stinson Parade and Vatuwaqa bridges will ease traffic congestion.
Travel into and out of the city area promises to be faster and convenient.
A big vinaka vakalevu goes to the Chinese government, our Prime Minister and the Fiji Roads Authority.
The “modern day bridges” don’t just make connections easier, but is a symbolic achievement by China and Fiji.
I believe that there are more infrastructure plans for major projects in other parts of Fiji.
It is time to think about the future of Fiji.
We welcome new developments such as wider roads, better drainage, footpaths, better traffic safety and streets lights.
Keep up the good work and I hope to see other new ventures that benefits all Fijians.
SODELPA stirrings
Amenatave Yaconisau, Delainavesi
The stirring caused by Sitiveni Rabuka’s leadership of SODELPA in the wake of the controversial appointment of Lynda Tabuya is unprecedented.
It reminds one of totalitarian decision making where branches and supporters need to be informed of important decisions.
Obviously there is no public participation but shoved down – like it or not.
Walking to get fit
Dharmendra Kumar, Suva
I love seeing people make positive changes in their lives.
I have noticed a trend among those focused on fitness.
I do not mean people joining gyms but rather walking to remove fat and to get fit.
Armed with a bit of get-up and go and good planning,you can be fitter without spending a dollar.
Walking is underrated as a form of exercise, but it is one of the easiest ways to get more activity into your day, lose weight and become healthier.
Walk everywhere and try to accommodate walking into your routine by ditching the car for short journeys, walking up the stairs and planning longer walks in the weekend.
“I promise to walk more everyday.” Doesn’t that sound easier and more pleasant than a year-long commitment?
Make a specific promise with a plan then create a series of steps to meet and keep your promise.
Remember,when creating any promise, think of it as a muscle: the more you use it ,the stronger it gets.
Happy walking!
Nepani footpaths and Laqere crossing
Tomasi Boginiso, Nasinu
A footpath to connect Ratu Dovi Road and the footpath that connects with the Laqere bridge is needed badly.
We have a school in the area and the improved footpaths will be welcomed by students.
Furthermore, for the safety of Nepani people and particularly children, a designated crossing is needed at the Laqere traffic lights.
The lights that operate at Laqere at the present moment are meant for motorists.
No one has thought of the public. A new market nearby is almost complete. This means the lights are an absolute necessity.
Overseas visas
Savenaca Vakaliwaliwa, Suva
Now is the time to apply for visas to Australia, New Zealand, Canada, USA and other popular destinations which are hosting the HSBC World Sevens Series.
Australia is hosting the Sydney Sevens at the end of this month and in April the Commonwealth Games.
Las Vegas will host the USA leg in March while in July, Sans Francisco will be the venue for the Sevens World Cup.
So those who apply early for a visa to Australia or the USA, indicating their plan to watch both tournaments held in that country have a chance of being granted a multiple visa.
Those who wish to visit Canada can apply to watch the Canada Sevens in Vancouver in March.
Once the Canada visa is granted, one can apply for a transit visa through the USA and if approved, an opportunity to see the USA.
You don’t need a sponsor to apply for a visa but you need to have enough funds in your bank account and you will need to convince the respective embassies that your life is here in Fiji and that you will honour the conditions of your visa.
Feedback: jyotip@fijisun.com.fj