Residents of Khalsa Road in Tacirua, near Suva, have voiced their concerns over deteriorating road conditions and potholes, demanding a permanent fix. For years, the residents and vehicle owners in the area have suffered from potholes damaging their vehicles and endangering their safety and those of their loved ones, especially children. Despite numerous requests, residents have written letters to the Fiji Roads Authority, but no significant action has been taken. Neli Vasu, a resident, expressed her concerns about the danger potholes have caused to her vehicle. Living near the road, she feared for her family’s safety, especially at night, as drivers swerved to avoid the potholes, potentially causing accidents near her home. Ms Vasu said potholes often caused severe damage to vehicles, such as punctured tyers, broken vehicle suspension bars, affected wheel alignments, tyre rims, shock absorbers and linkage bars. Some vehicles suffer undercarriage or engine damage, she claimed. Nanise Rokodra, a taxi base business proprietor along Khalsa Road, also highlighted the significant vehicle damage caused by potholes. She said damage to their taxis led to expensive repairs, and when drivers tried to avoid potholes by swerving or braking suddenly, accidents happened, including collisions with vehicles, pedestrians, or roadside structures. “It has been hazardous for pedestrians, especially in areas with poor lighting or heavy traffic,” said Ms Rokodra. Lagi Rokovui, another resident, urged authorities to take action, noting that potholes exacerbated flooding issues in Suva. Water collected in potholes, create road flooding, which further impeded traffic flow and damaged road infrastructure. Mr Rokovui said potholes required constant repairs, diverting local resources and increasing public spending on road maintenance. “If not fixed promptly, the problem will worsen over time,” he said. Concerned about his grandchildren’s health, Mr Rokovui said poor road conditions, including potholes, caused air pollution due to frequent stop-and-go traffic and fuel inefficiency from driving on uneven roads. Authorities in Suva and other regions have often faced challenges in maintaining roads due to budget limitations, urbanisation, and climate conditions. Suva Bus Stand Meanwhile, road conditions at the Suva Bus Stand had worsened in recent days, especially after heavy rain. Bus operators raised concerns on the issue and have also requested authorities to fix the problem immediately. Questions have been sent to the Fiji Roads Authority. Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj