VILLAGERS of a Macuata district are requesting bus companies to provide them with new buses.
The villagers of Navidamu, Nakalou and Vunimako claim they have been riding in old buses which often break down.
Macuata district representative Peni Donu said despite liaising with the authorities, their pleas have fallen on deaf ears.
"We're isolated from the urban centres and transport is one of the major hurdles we face daily.
"It's a common trend to see that people in urban centres ride in good and new buses while those in rural areas travel in old buses. Those in rural areas pay good amount of fares and it's only proper they are provided with new buses."
Mr Donu said many rural travellers were elderly people, pregnant women and sick patients.
Dalip Chand and Sons manager Ronil Chand said a new bus had operated in the area at the beginning of the year. "All our three buses operating in the area are well maintained and fit as far as passenger's safety is concerned," Mr Chand said. "The appalling road condition in the area is a factor we are taking into account because we don't want our buses to be damaged as a result of travelling on bad roads."
Fiji Roads Authority spokesman Iliesa Sokia said workers at Seaqaqa Depot repaired the Navidamu road in March.