Wedding celebration ends in tragedy for family

What began as a joyful family celebration ended in heartbreak for one family after four relatives lost their lives in a vehicle accident at Nasivi Bridge in Vatukoula, Tavua, over the weekend.

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

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

Police said the family was returning from a family function in Nasivi when the driver, Mr Kumar, lost control of the vehicle, causing it to veer off the road and plunge into the Nasivi 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, who wished to remain anonymous, said he was among those who helped remove the victims from the vehicle.

The relative said it was difficult to get the victims out because all the windows were closed.

He described the rescue efforts, including breaking the car windows and performing CPR, but all four victims were pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital.

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

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

The family was returning from a wedding celebration when the accident occurred.

Meshack, 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.

The tragedy has also prompted renewed calls for safety improvements at Nasivi Bridge.

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

"But we worry about family members who are unfamiliar with the area and travel at night. It is a great risk to them," Meshack said.

Another driver from Nasivi said he had always been concerned about crossing the bridge after dark.

"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 speak to the media and requested privacy and time to grieve, highlighting the emotional toll of the tragedy.

Meanwhile, Police investigations into the accident are continuing.