FRA to set up temporary detour after road drop-out near Semo village

A significant road drop-out has occurred along Queen’s Road near Semo Village, resulting in the collapse of the carriageway and cutting off traffic in both directions.

The Fiji Roads Authority (FRA) said the route was now impassable and motorists were strongly advised to avoid the area until further notice.

An immediate assessment will be carried out once floodwaters have receded. In the meantime, FRA is working to establish a temporary detour to restore access.

Motorists travelling along Queen’s Road near Semo Village in Nadroga were diverted yesterday after the road gave way following heavy rain.

FRA advised drivers to use alternative routes via Naidiri, Kabisi and Maro while repair works are under way.

FRA Nadi–Sigatoka general manager Shivneel Kumar confirmed the incident and said a media alert would follow.

“It happened due to heavy rain in the area,” he said.

Mr Kumar said temporary traffic management had been put in place to ensure the safety of motorists during the planned works.

A similar road drop-out occurred in May last year, affecting the Sigatoka-bound lane near Sigatoka Town, which was temporarily closed.

Nadi Rugby Union executive Wili Tuitavua said he had driven past the area about an hour before the road gave way after attending a match at Lawaqa Park.

“Lucky we had just crossed when it happened,” he said.

He said several motorists were stranded on the other side of the highway and considered using dirt detour roads.