Bleak Diwali for Family

As Fijians celebrated Diwali on Friday, a family of six in Rakiraki, was the exception.

Breadwinner, Salesh Prasad, 42, a store and delivery staff member at Portion Pak in Nadi, became the latest road fatality.

Police said Mr Prasad was believed to have lost control of the vehicle he was driving, causing it to veer-off the road before landing in a ditch.

The accident occurred along the Kings Road near Karavi, Ba, after 10pm on Thursday.

His wife, Moveena Kumari, 45, said her husband whom she had been married to for the past 19 years, was returning home for the weekend.

“He comes home for the weekend, but stays and work in Nadi on the weekdays,” she said.

She said the family had been waiting for him to celebrate Diwali.

“He did the shopping in Nadi and was coming home to celebrate Diwali with family,” Mrs Kumar said.

Portion Pak general manager Bobby Prasad said the late Mr Prasad was a great worker and a great team player.

“He was a very honest and hardworking person,” he said.

“He spent six years with the company. We are in shock to hear that news.”

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro said: “The victim died at the scene allegedly as a result of the accident. Investigations continue.”

Mr Prasad is survived by wife and four children.

Ms Naisoro said the road death toll now stood at 46 compared to 68 for the same period last year.

Police have urged all motorists to be more vigilant on the road.

Feedback: waisean@fijisun.com.fj