Andrea Joseva had a narrow escape from a potentially disastrous situation on Monday when he crossed a bridge in Vunayasi, Nadi, just moments before it collapsed. The Dratabu villager was returning home from his farmhouse when he noticed that the water level was rising dangerously close to the bridge. “I was fortunate that my car was able to make it across before the bridge gave way,” he shared. However, upon his return, he discovered that the road was closed due to the disaster.
In a separate incident, a family of four also experienced a harrowing situation when their vehicle fell into the river as the bridge gave way. Fortunately, they managed to escape without serious injuries. Ben Latu, who witnessed the incident as he was coming home from work, jumped in to assist. He described how they swam to safety and eventually climbed back onto the structure with help from Latu’s cousin, who rescued the driver and brought her to shore.
The bridge, built in 1958, has become a subject of concern, as its stability is now in question. The community is left hoping for a swift assessment of the situation to prevent future accidents.
These incidents serve as a poignant reminder of the importance of infrastructure maintenance and safety. Local authorities may need to investigate the condition of aging structures like this bridge to ensure the safety of residents. It’s fortunate that both Joseva and the family emerged unharmed, showcasing the resilience of the community in the face of adversity.
This story emphasizes the need for continued investment in public infrastructure to enhance safety for all citizens.
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