A recent road accident in Bua which claimed two lives is a matter of concern for the chiefs who have pleaded for dust control along the Nawailevu Rd, which is mostly used by bauxite-laden trucks.
Early this month, The Fiji Times published the chiefs' concerns over thick dust along the road labelling it as a threat to road users' safety and health of villagers in the area.
Speaking on their behalf, Tui Wainunu Ratu Orisi Baleitavea said: "The safety of the public is paramount and it's only proper that appropriate measures and procedures are followed by the bauxite company.
"We are not against developments in the area since it's a good thing for the people but we are just worried if incidents like this continue, it may claim other lives of road users."
He continued: "This was discussed at the recent bose vanua in Nabouwalu and we hope something is done because we don't want accidents to happen as a result of the dust blurring drivers' vision."
Last Thursday's accident at Lekutu clÂaimed the lives of two mineworkers, a Chinese national and a Cakaudrove man.
Bauxite mine manager Basilio Vanuaca earlier said it could be understood there were concerns over the environment.
He said every facet of operations were carried out with serious consideration for the environment in accordance with the environmental impact assessment.