Road access to several communities in Rakiraki has been disrupted following a vehicle accident on the Fiji Sugar Corporation (FSC) bridge earlier today. Residents of Colasi, Mullau, and Dugavatu are currently unable to reach the main road after an FSC vehicle encountered difficulties while crossing the bridge.
Eyewitnesses reported that a wooden plank from the bridge became lodged under the vehicle, resulting in significant damage to its drive shaft. This incident has also dislodged several wooden slabs from the bridge, creating dangerous conditions that led to the structure being closed to all traffic.
As a result, residents in the surrounding areas have been temporarily isolated. Many locals have voiced their concerns about the bridge’s deteriorating condition, citing previous calls for urgent repairs that have not been addressed. One resident remarked, “This bridge has been in poor condition for a long time. The wooden planks are loose, and it was only a matter of time before something like this happened.”
With schools reopening tomorrow, authorities are expected to evaluate the damage to the bridge and decide on the necessary steps to take, which may include temporary repairs or alternate access routes. Residents continue to advocate for a long-term solution to improve safety and accessibility for their community.
This incident highlights the importance of infrastructure maintenance, particularly in areas reliant on specific routes for travel and transport. The responses from local authorities will be closely monitored as residents seek a swift resolution to their access issues.
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