A segment of the Queen’s Highway near Semo Village, leading towards Sigatoka, has been closed due to a culvert collapse that occurred this afternoon around 5 PM. The collapse is believed to have been caused by heavy rainfall, which resulted in the culvert sinking and disrupting traffic flow in that area.
Authorities have cordoned off the vicinity, redirecting traffic from the Nadi end through the Maro bypass road via Nalele Village, which eventually reconnects to the highway toward Suva. Motorists coming from the Sigatoka direction are being advised to utilize the same detour, which adds about 10 kilometers to travel time.
To ease the disruption, local villagers are helping manage traffic and facilitate the movement of individuals at the site. Meanwhile, the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) is on-site assessing the damage. This incident marks the third occurrence of a culvert sinking in the same location due to previous heavy rainfall.
Concerns have been raised regarding the temporary bypass road’s safety, as it is narrow and can only accommodate cars and light goods vehicles. Consequently, heavy goods vehicles, including buses and trucks, are expected to be stranded on either side of the closure, leading to potential traffic congestion.
In response, police are increasing patrols in the vicinity to deter any criminal activities. The FRA is expected to act swiftly, with plans to temporarily bury part of the sunken section to permit limited access while permanent repairs are being arranged.
Motorists are urged to exercise patience and drive cautiously as they navigate around this disrupted area. The commitment of local residents and the swift response from authorities highlight the community’s resilience and collaborative spirit in the face of adversity.
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