Crossing the river to reach school will be a thing of the past for students of Nakobo District School in Cakaudrove following the commissioning of the Kacidavui Crossing along Nakobo Road by the Minister for Public Works and Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau.
Head of Nakobo District School Peniana Pickering says they have been requesting a bridge in the past years, and they are grateful to the government for answering their prayers.
She says their concern was that students cross the river during flood or high tide to reach the school, and also when they return home.
While commissioning the newly constructed bridge, Minister Ro Filipe emphasized that this project reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to bridging rural gaps and fostering inclusive growth.
He says this is more than just a crossing; it is a reaffirmation of their dedication to connecting communities, supporting economic activities, and safeguarding our cultural heritage.
Ro Filipe says these infrastructure upgrades enable farmers to reach markets, students to access schools, and families to access healthcare, all while preserving our rich cultural sites for future generations.
Previously a splash crossing, the site has now been upgraded to a low-level crossing, greatly improving safety for commuters, particularly for women and school children.
The new Kacidavui Crossing was completed at a cost of approximately $661,000 and will serve the village of Vunisavisavi and the heritage site of Thomas Baker.
It also promises safe, reliable access vital for daily activities, cultural engagements, and community development. This project marks a significant milestone in Fiji’s ongoing efforts to enhance rural connectivity and infrastructure resilience.
