Tamavua-i-Wai Bridge Four-Lane Design To Be Finalised Soon

The four-lane highway out of Suva is looking more plausible with possible designs for the replacement of the old Tamavua-i-Wai Bridge to be finalised by the end of the last quarter this year, said Ministry of Infrastructure permanent secretary, Taitusi Vakadravuyaca.

A $1.2 million grant deal was signed last month where the Japanese Government through the Japan International Cooperation Agency would provide funds for the necessary engineering and environmental studies.

Mr Vakadravuyaca said there were obligations taken on by the Fiji Roads Authority which would need to be completed.

“We have obligations from Fiji Roads Authority and the Government of Fiji, one of them is Environment Impact Assessment, clearing of the sites, the obstructions, there is a procurement agreement within the agreement. Things that need to happen,” he said.

“Given the COVID-19 situation, in the last quarter we will be able to finalise the designs.

The reconstruction of the Bridge aims to improve the lives of 90,000 people who utilise the Suva-Lami corridor, according to the Government.

Government figures stated on average of 21,414 vehicles accessing the Bridge on a daily basis.

Around 4.3 million tonnes of cargo volume passes on the bridge on an annual basis.

Edited by Rayape Karavaki

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