The partial collapse of a bridge at Vuniyasi in Nadi on Monday evening has impacted 2000 families residing in the surrounding communities of Malakua, Vuniyasi, Malolo, Navo and Tunalia.
A family narrowly escaped serious injury when their vehicle fell into the river following the collapse of the bridge. They were rescued by two men who witnessed the incident. Advisory councillor Pranilesh Chandra said the bridge served as the main bypass for the communities’ access to town.
“It’s the main bridge for Malakua residents to go to school at SVC (Swami Vivekanand College) and AD Patel Primary,” Mr Chandra said.
“Before, it was only the wood that got washed away, but it was repaired. Now, part of the bridge is gone. The repair is usually done by the Fiji Roads Authority.”
Mr Chandra said large cane trucks were previously able to cross the bridge.
“There’s another route, but it’s a long route,” he said.
“Previously, Vuniyasi people took 15 to 20 minutes to reach the other side, but now it will take more than 30 minutes.
“That’s from the Malolo side near SVC.”
Mr Chandra said water disruptions caused by damaged pipes under the bridge was an inconvenience for many families.
“We are requesting the Government and the FRA to repair the bridge.”
FRA said it was aware of the bridge’s condition and recognised the risks it posed to members of the community.
“FRA is committed to rehabilitating or repairing the bridge and is actively working on finding effective solutions,” the authority said.
Questions sent to the Water Authority of Fiji remained unanswered.
