As Fijians joyfully celebrated Diwali on Friday, a family in Rakiraki faced heartbreak with the tragic loss of their loved one. Salesh Prasad, a 42-year-old husband and father of four, was involved in a fatal car accident late Thursday night while returning home from his job at Portion Pak in Nadi.
According to police reports, Mr. Prasad lost control of his vehicle on Kings Road near Karavi, Ba, causing it to veer off the road and end up in a ditch. His wife, Moveena Kumari, shared the profound sense of loss the family is experiencing after looking forward to celebrating Diwali together. “He comes home for the weekend, but stays and works in Nadi on weekdays,” she explained, emphasizing the family’s anticipation of his homecoming and the preparations he made to celebrate the festival.
Bobby Prasad, general manager of Portion Pak, expressed deep sorrow at the loss of a valued employee, describing Mr. Prasad as honest and hardworking, a sentiment echoed by his colleagues who are in shock at the news.
The tragic incident adds to a grim road death toll which now stands at 46, a slight improvement compared to 68 incidents reported in the same timeframe last year. Authorities have reiterated the importance of road safety and are urging all drivers to remain vigilant.
In the face of this tragedy, it’s vital for the community to come together to support the grieving family, highlighting the resilience of Fijian culture during difficult times. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety, especially during festive periods when families celebrate together. Let this poignant moment inspire heightened awareness and caution on the roads to prevent further tragedies.
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