Reports from this year’s parliamentary visits highlight the urgent need for repair and maintenance of roads, a pressing issue that has been consistently raised across various constituencies.
During meetings in the outer islands and several constituencies in Tongatapu, residents have expressed their dissatisfaction with the deteriorating condition of roads. Concerns were voiced in discussions with Members of Parliament representing Tongatapu 1, 2, 4, 5, 10, Ha’apai 13, and Vava’u 14.
Residents of Tongatapu 4 have particularly voiced their frustrations to their People’s Representative, Hon. Mateni Tapueluelu. They criticized the government for its perceived lack of commitment to road repairs, noting that most repair and road constructionsef seem to concentrate in the electorates of certain Cabinet Ministers, leaving many roads riddled with potholes.
The community believes that this distribution of government resources is unfair. In response, the Tongatapu 4 Council has allocated TOP $100,000 from its Constituency Fund for road maintenance and rehabilitation, a project that began last year.
In Tongatapu 2, residents shared their concerns with MP Hon. Dr. ‘Uhilamoelangi Fasi, questioning the government’s strategy regarding road maintenance in rural areas. They argue that improving roads should be a priority, as many residents commute to schools and workplaces in Nuku’alofa.
Similarly, residents of Tongatapu 5, including those from Fahefa, Te’ekiu, and Matahau, have urged their MP, Hon. Dr. ‘Aisake Eke, to prioritize the repair of interconnecting roads. They suggested utilizing constituency funds for this purpose.
Last night Lord Tu’ivakano, the Noble Representative for Tongatapu No. 2, emphasized that it is the government’s responsibility to maintain roads, criticizing its failure to address the community’s concerns over the years.
Reports from Ha’apai 12 and 13 also reflect the urgent need for road repairs. Residents have highlighted the worsening quality of roads from Pangai to Foa, pleading with MPs Hon. Veivosa Taka and Hon. Mo’ale Finau to take action on both community and bush allotment roads.
In contrast, the residents of Vava’u 14 face unique challenges, relying on the sea for transportation. They have requested government assistance to reconstruct their wharves and causeways to improve access and ease of transport.
