People First pledges to prioritise Labasa bypass

People First Party (PFP) leader Inia Seruiratu says easing Labasa's growing traffic congestion will be a priority if his party forms the next Government, with the long-awaited Labasa bypass project high on its agenda.

Mr Seruiratu said the proposed bypass was important to support development under the Look North Policy and improve traffic flow for residents, commuters and businesses.

He said the previous FijiFirst Government had already laid the groundwork through dialogue and consultations for the first phase of the project.

"I do understand the current government is looking into options as well to address the traffic congestion in Labasa," he said.

While acknowledging motorists' frustrations, Mr Seruiratu urged patience.

"It is a long-term plan rather than an ad-hoc response," he said.

Businesses feeling the impact

Labasa Taxi Association general secretary Sujit Sharma said worsening traffic congestion was affecting businesses and transport operators.

He said taxi drivers were losing valuable time in traffic, while freight companies were also experiencing delivery delays.

Mr Sharma said the issue required urgent Government attention and hoped a new administration, if elected, would resolve the problem.

Election preparations

Meanwhile, Mr Seruiratu confirmed the PFP would soon establish party branches across the country as it stepped up preparations for the upcoming General Election.

He described the move as an "immediate priority" to strengthen the party's election campaign, although locations for the branches are yet to be finalised.

"We have good support in the North and we will try to embrace this with good policies."

Mr Seruiratu also urged voters to carefully consider their choices at the next election and support leaders who had previously met the expectations of the people.