Villagers of Naqai in Labasa have given their backing to a government plan to build an alternative bridge that will ease traffic and serve as a diversion route ahead of major works on the main Labasa Bridge scheduled for next year. The decision, welcomed by the community’s Turaga ni Yavusa Brian Vunibola, comes as authorities step up preparations that include environmental and fisheries impact assessments and wider infrastructure planning.
“Fortune knocks once at every man’s door, and I think this will be of great benefit,” Vunibola said, underlining local support for the project. He told officials the bridge would deliver advantages across the village, noting active women’s and youth groups and that most households rely on fishing for their livelihoods. Naqai, he said, was identified as the preferred site because it offers a shorter route linking the community directly to Bouma Settlement, making the crossing accessible for all.
Naqai is a small community of roughly 42 households and more than 200 people. Village leaders have been involved in consultations with government officials at every stage of planning, Vunibola said, adding that studies on environmental and fisheries impacts are already being carried out to ensure the proposed crossing minimises harm to coastal and marine resources.
The alternative bridge is being positioned as a key mitigation measure ahead of the main Labasa Bridge’s scheduled upgrade next year. Government planners expect the new crossing to act as a diversion route to maintain traffic flow and reduce disruption to daily travel and economic activity in and around Labasa during the upgrade works.
Work on the alternative bridge is expected to begin this year, officials confirmed. While the timeframe is short, Vunibola and villagers have expressed optimism that early construction will allow the community and local businesses — many dependent on river and coastal access — to adjust to changes and take advantage of improved connectivity.
The project reflects broader infrastructure focus in the region as Labasa grows and development intensifies. Local leaders say improved links between Naqai and Bouma Settlement will not only ease traffic during bridge upgrades but also support local trade, access to services and community development. Authorities say continued consultations and the required impact assessments will guide the final design and construction plan to balance development needs with environmental protection.
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