Drivers are calling for improved traffic management in Apia as congestion continues to build daily from morning through to the evening.

Motorists voiced concerns over long car queues across busy roads in town, saying police officers should focus more on directing traffic at intersections without traffic lights rather than standing at traffic light areas already controlled by signals.

Tina Esau said traffic congestion in Samoa has become part of everyday life, with drivers experiencing delays during school runs, work hours and late afternoons.

She said many motorists are frustrated because some busy intersections are left unmanaged while officers are stationed at traffic lights where drivers already know how to follow road rules.

“Traffic in Samoa is getting worse every year because there are more vehicles on the roads now,” she said. “If officers were placed at the busiest areas without traffic lights, it could help reduce long queues and improve the flow of traffic.”

Jireh Asovale shared similar concerns, saying many commuters leave home early to avoid traffic but still end up stuck in long lines of vehicles.

He said unmanaged intersections around Apia are among the main causes of congestion, especially during peak hours when parents drop children off at school and workers head home.

“Drivers already understand how traffic lights work,” he said. “Police officers would be more useful directing vehicles at places where traffic usually builds up quickly because there are no traffic lights.”

Asovale added that better traffic management could save time for commuters and reduce daily stress for drivers travelling around town.

Rapha Sinclair said traffic congestion has become exhausting for many motorists who spend long periods waiting in queues every day.

He questioned why officers are often positioned at traffic lights while other intersections struggle without proper traffic control.

“There are areas around town where vehicles can barely move because there is no officer controlling traffic,” he said. “People just want smoother traffic flow and less waiting time on the roads.”

Sinclair added that better traffic management would make travelling around Apia easier for families, workers and the general public.