Passengers safe after bus veers off Buca Bay Road
Operator blames poor road conditions, calls for urgent FRA action.
Thursday 28 November 2024 | 08:58
Passengers and the bus driver escaped injuries after the bus veered off the road at Buca Bay, Cakaudrove, on November 26, 2024.
Twelve passengers and the driver of a Vishnu Holdings Limited bus escaped unharmed after the bus veered off the road at Buca Bay, Cakaudrove, on Tuesday afternoon.
Company general manager, Shonal Dutt, confirmed the incident, attributing it to the poor state of the road.
"It was nothing serious, and no one was injured. The bus went off the road due to poor conditions," Mr Dutt said.
Related stories
He said a replacement bus arrived 30 minutes later to continue the route.
"We've faced ongoing challenges with the poorly maintained road at Buca Bay. While the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) conducts temporary repairs, the road soon deteriorates again," he added.
Mr Dutt also highlighted saltwater intrusion from the nearby sea, which exacerbates the road's condition.
Despite these challenges, the company continues to service the route.
"We need the FRA to take decisive action, and the Government must ensure bus-operating routes are properly maintained," he said.
"We pay road levies, but it's hard to see where the money goes as many roads remain in dire need of repair."
Mr Dutt called for direct consultations with the FRA to address these ongoing issues.
While the company participated in public consultations with the Land Transport Authority (LTA) earlier this year, many of their concerns remain unresolved.
LTA chief executive officer, Irimaia Rokosawa, recently emphasised the importance of engaging with transport providers, including bus and taxi operators, to address such challenges effectively.
Feedback: sampras.anand@fijisun.com.fj
