A serious accident involving two buses occurred early this morning at Nokonoko junction, near Namuimada village in Rakiraki. The collision, which happened around 5:30 AM, resulted in the death of one driver and left 24 passengers injured. The force of the impact caused both buses to veer off the Kings Highway and knocked down a nearby power pole belonging to Energy Fiji Limited.
Emergency services, including the National Fire Authority, quickly arrived at the scene to provide assistance. The injured were promptly treated and transported to Rakiraki Hospital for further medical care. Local police have commenced an investigation to ascertain the precise circumstances leading up to the accident, with further details expected as they gather evidence.
This incident highlights a worrying trend of road accidents in Fiji, emphasizing the ongoing discussions around road safety amidst a series of recent serious incidents. For instance, a prior accident in Wairuku, also in Rakiraki, resulted in the death of a passenger and multiple injuries, underscoring the urgent need for improved safety measures.
In response to these troubling events, community leaders and authorities are reinforcing calls for heightened road safety awareness and stricter enforcement of traffic regulations. There is hope that by fostering awareness and adhering to safety protocols, the nation can work towards creating safer roads, thus minimizing the risk of future tragedies. The emphasis on improving road safety is crucial as Fiji reflects on these incidents and aims to significantly reduce casualties and injuries on its highways.