Good news for residents in Vunikodi, Nukusa, Wainigadru, Kedra and neighboring villagers as Vatuvanai hill, on the west coast of Natewa in Labasa has been upgraded and sealed, improving access for communities in the area.
Fiji Roads Authority has confirmed that Vatuvanai hill that is about 90km from Labasa Town and 120km from Savusavu Town has had its’ road rehabilitation completed on the 350 metre long and 7metre wide stretch.
Fulton Hogan Hiways Stabilising and Construction Crew Supervisor in the North, George Hughes says that the previously unsealed Vatuvanai hill was always a "nightmare" in wet weather for drivers, especially bus drivers.
The upgraded road is also improving opportunities for farmers.
Vatuvanai rootcrop farmer Beniasi Baleinadi says the improved road condition means there will be no delay in getting their produce to the middlemen at the Labasa Town market.
Baleinadi says that previously, a delay could mean up to three days of being unable to transport their crops because buses and carriers couldn't make it up the hill; it used to be quite slippery.
He adds that this would cause him a loss of as much as $600, in three days because he couldn't meet his market appointment and that has now changed.
Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations