Motorists warned not to cross rivers

By Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong 22 February 2020, 3:00PM

Motorists have been warned not to take the risks of crossing overflowing fords and rivers after days of heavy rain. 

The Minister of Works Transport and Infrastructure, Papali’i Niko Lee Hang, urged motorists to use their common sense as the country faced heavy rain and flooding advisories throughout the week. 

Papali’i who is also the responsible Minister of Land Transport Authority (L.T.A.) said there are always risks during this time of year with raging floods.

“Flooding from rivers is always dangerous and poses high risks for travelers,” he said, in an interview with the Samoa Observer. 

“For safety measures people should not cross the fjord and rivers especially when there are passengers on board. Its too high of a risk and motorists should wait until river flow weakens and safe to cross.” 

The Minister also dismissed calls from members of the public that Police and L.T.A. should put in place measures to stop people from crossing the rivers. 

“That is not necessary [for Police and L.T.A.] to monitor it; it's common sense,” said the Minister. 

“Flooding at the ford is always dangerous and poses high risk when people attempt to cross it. 

“The best option is to wait until the river flow slows down…”

Despite warnings from the L.T.A. for motorists to refrain from crossing rivers travelers still often attempt the trip. 

Just this month a taxi driver and two passengers were swept into the Fuluasou river after trying to cross ford at Tulaele.

Search and rescue were called into to the scene to help the travelers. 

A resident at Tulaele had urged the authority to put up chains to prevent drivers from attempting to cross the road

By Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong 22 February 2020, 3:00PM
Samoa Observer

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