Cyclone Tino Aftermath: Lawaki Villagers Clear Debris On Nakorotari Crossing

Villagers from Lawaki yesterday cleared debris left by Tropical Cyclone Tino on the Nakorotari crossing in Labasa.

This crossing was built as a bypass road to Labasa Town last year.

Village headman Rupeni Ravenu said the crossing was under water after 5pm on Friday afternoon.

“This new crossing is yet to be officially opened, but it has withstood two cyclones,” Mr Ravenu said.

“It had undergone minor repairs right after damages left by TC Sarai last month.

“We are here to clear the debris so that motorists can access it.”

This crossing was designed to last a hundred years, running two lanes with a width of 7.32 metres.

Another crossing, the Navakuru Crossing in Labasa remained closed because it was still underwater.

Local bus driver Satish Chand said this crossing was damaged due to the heavy flood over one night of heavy rain.

Navakuru Villager Laisiasa Dakai, 30, said the crossing was underwater from Friday morning as a result of heavy rainfall.

Meanwhile, the Fiji Roads Authority stated that seven roads were still closed to motorists for their own safety.

While roads to Nubu, Kelikoso, Vunivutu, Wavuwavu, Navakuru, Namuavoivoi, Coqeloa, and Nayarabale remain closed, Wainikoro, Nagigi and Vatulovona crossing have been opened but motorists were cautioned to be careful.

FRA is cautioning motorists not to drive into water of unknown depths and current as this could be life-threatening.

The FRA is closely monitoring the situation of the roads for all divisions and are urging the public to remain vigilant.

Edited by Shratika Naidu

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