L.T.A. Chief downplays questions over $1.55m works

By Joyetter Luamanu 20 October 2017, 12:00AM

Fugalei Street, one of the busiest streets in the Apia Township, has been dug up once again.

But the Chief Executive Officer (C.E.O) of the Land Transport Authority (L.T.A), Leasi Ioane Galuvao, has downplayed questions concerning the need for the continual digging of the road.

Speaking to the Weekend Observer, Leasi said the project is the second phase of upgrading the drainage system. The $1.55million project is being carried out by Ulia Construction.

The explanation was in response to questions following concerns raised by members of the public about the road works seeing it was the third time this particular road has been closed and dug up.

But Leasi said this is a totally different project.

“This is the second phase of continuing drainage upgrade works. The previous phase was from the Fugalei Road to the Savalalo outlet.

“The current phase upgrades drainage pipes along Convent Street to Savalalo outlet.”

According to the C.E.O., Ulia Construction conducted the first phase of the drainage works. Ott Construction only did the road reconstruction.

The C.E.O reiterated the current works is not a new project.

“This is an entirely new phase of drainage upgrade works.”

He further explained the part of the road that is being dug up is from St. Mary’s School gate towards Convent Street.

“The section that was dug up before was from St. Mary’s school gate heading south along Fugalei Street.

“The section being dug now is not the same section that was dug up for the 1st phase.

“The Savalalo outlet is located around the St Mary’s school gate and runs through T.A.T.T.E. compound discharging into the sea behind the Savalalo Bus terminal.”

Asked as to why the second phase was not completed before the new road was fixed, Leasi explained it’s because of the availability of funds.

“Drainage upgrade works are done in phases due to the available funding received each year.”

The works were tendered out as per Government guidelines. Ulia Construction won, according to Leasi.

 “The current second phase of construction costs $1.55m,” he said.

He also appeals to members of the public for their patience.

“The L.T.A. regrets the inconvenience to the Public but these upgrade works are necessary and part of ongoing upgrade works for the Apia C.B.D. drainage system.”

Samoa Observer contacted Ulia Construction for a comment and the receptionist who did not want to be named indicated they would call back. This did not happen by press time last night.

By Joyetter Luamanu 20 October 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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