Residents want barriers installed on Nasivi Bridge

Residents of Nasivi in Vatukoula, Tavua, are pleading with authorities to install guard rails on Nasivi Bridge following a tragic vehicle accident that claimed four lives last Saturday night.

Five people were travelling in the vehicle. Four died while one survived.

The deceased have been identified as Ajit Kumar, 43, his wife Shinal Kumar, 35, their nine-year-old daughter Anshi Kumar, and Kumar's sister-in-law, Adnil Denial, 38.

Police said the family was returning from a wedding function in Nasivi when the driver allegedly lost control of the vehicle, causing it to veer off the road and plunge into the river.

The victims were rushed to Tavua Hospital, where medical officials confirmed their deaths.

Police said the fifth passenger escaped serious injury.

A family member said the survivor lives in Nasivi, while the other victims were residents of Nausori.

The relative, who requested anonymity, said he was among those who helped remove the victims from the vehicle.

He said rescuers faced difficulties because all the vehicle's windows were closed.

Rescue efforts included breaking the windows and performing CPR, but all four victims were pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital.

The survivor remains in shock and did not wish to speak to the media.

The family member said Kumar was related to the father of the groom.

Meshack Baptist, a relative of the groom, said the family was struggling to come to terms with the tragedy.

“We were talking to each other and celebrating, not knowing that death awaited them. It is very sad to experience.

“The husband of one of the victims was still at the function when news came that his wife had died. He was in shock,” he said.

Mr Baptist said stronger safety measures were needed at the bridge.

“There must be strong railings on both sides of the bridge. For us here in Nasivi, we are used to it.”

A Nasivi driver said he had always been concerned about crossing the bridge at night.

“It is frightening to drive across the bridge during the night. There should be strong railings to protect drivers if they lose control while crossing,” he said.

Other family members declined to comment and requested privacy.

Police investigations into the accident are continuing.