Completion of new bridge to benefit people in Sigtoka

Thousands of people in Lomawai will now have a safe journey to health facilities, school, markets and other facilities after the completion of the new Lomawai Bridge in Sigatoka.

Fiji Roads Authority Program Manager for Bridges and Jetties Nixon Toremana says the new bridge will make a big difference in the lives of the surrounding communities.

He says students will no longer face difficulty in crossing the bridge during rainy weather and they will now be able to reach school safely and on time.

He adds the transportation of goods and services will be faster and cheaper.

Toremana says the old bridge was considered a high priority due to the bridge beams and diaphragm having extensive corrosion.

According to FRA the new bridge cost approximately $5 million and is designed to comply with the 100 year design life.

Meanwhile, FRA says that Naboutini 1 Bridge in Nadi is now open to all traffic.

The Authority says that 95% of the repair work is completed on the bridge and the contractors are now fixing the wheel guard, which is expected to be completed by 6pm today.