Villagers in Dawasamu, Tailevu are urgently calling on authorities to conduct prompt rehabilitation works on the Nailawa Bridge, which has been severely damaged by heavy rain over the weekend. The adverse weather led to flash flooding, resulting in the wash-out of both approaches to the bridge, disrupting access for the local community.
This vital bridge connects multiple villages, including Delakado, Veilolo, Natadradave, and Vorovoro, serving as an essential route for residents needing to reach the highway. The loss of this access raises concerns about mobility for villagers, particularly as they rely on this route for work, school, and essential services.
Similar situations have been highlighted in recent reports concerning other bridge collapses in Fiji, such as the significant impact felt by communities near the Vuniyasi bridge, where a collapse affected thousands of residents. The Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) has recognized the urgent need for infrastructure assessment and repair, with local officials advocating for immediate action to prevent such incidents, which could jeopardize safety and accessibility.
The ongoing challenges faced by rural communities in maintaining safe transportation routes underscore the necessity for urgent infrastructure improvements across the region. Authorities are encouraged to prioritize rehabilitation works not just on the Nailawa Bridge but also on other vulnerable infrastructures that serve critical roles in community connectivity.
As communities rally for urgent action, there remains hope that these incidents will catalyze necessary government responses, leading to safer conditions for all travelers and improved infrastructure that can better withstand adverse weather conditions in the future. The villagers’ voices are resonating for change—a call for resilience and proactive management in infrastructure to safeguard lives and promote ease of access for all.
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