Vehicle quota system proposed to minimise Labasa traffic

The Labasa Town Council has proposed a vehicle quota system to help ease traffic congestion in the town.

Special administrator chairperson Paul Jaduram said Labasa roads are overcrowded, with some families owning more than two vehicles.

While congestion is expected to improve with the construction of a new Labasa Town Bridge, Mr Jaduram suggested that a quota system should also be considered.

“There are numerous vehicle purchases every day, and this trend alone will not resolve the growing congestion problem,” he said.

Acknowledging that the proposal may be unpopular with some, Mr Jaduram urged families to think holistically. He encouraged vehicle owners to repair and maintain existing vehicles instead of buying new ones.

“We have capable mechanics in Labasa who can repair and maintain vehicles, so there is no need to buy new ones,” he said.

He also highlighted the role of the Fiji Roads Authority in ensuring roads are maintained to support vehicle upkeep.

Mr Jaduram further advised families to try using one vehicle for family functions or commitments rather than using multiple vehicles for the same trip.

Labasa Taxi Association general secretary Sujit Sharma agreed that the number of vehicles on roads continues to rise rapidly.

He said heavy traffic has affected taxi operations, causing delays and impacting customer satisfaction.

“Common sense needs to prevail, as some motorists at times ignore road safety rules,” Mr Sharma added.