LIMITED access and disrupted travel continue to affect the people of Naveilolo Settlement and the villages of Delakado, Natadradave and Vorovoro in Tailevu every time heavy rain hits the area.
Naveilolo community head Filimoni Masivulo, 72, said the Nailawa Bridge was built nearly 20 years ago and remains the main link to education and government services.
“This bridge was built by the Qarase government about 20 years ago,” said Mr Masivulo.
He said the structure was severely damaged during Tropical Cyclone Winston and has never been upgraded.
“After Cyclone Winston broke it, we’re still waiting for an upgrade,” he said.
Mr Masivulo said children were the most affected whenever the bridge floods, forcing school disruptions for both primary and secondary students.
“Primary and secondary students are the ones who are affected the most, because when it rains the bridge gets flooded. It’s either they take a half day off school, or they don’t go to school at all.”
Mr Masivulo said the swollen crossing had also claimed lives.
“Two have drowned here trying to cross the bridge when it was flooded.”
Mr Masivulo is calling on authorities to act urgently.
“I beg the Government not to forget about us. We only ask that a safer bridge be built for us.”
