A tragic accident involving two buses occurred early this morning at Nokonoko junction, just past Namuimada village in Rakiraki, resulting in the death of one driver and injuring 24 passengers. The collision took place around 5:30 AM, causing both buses to veer off the Kings Highway. The impact of the crash also knocked down a power pole belonging to Energy Fiji Limited.
Emergency services, including the National Fire Authority, promptly responded to the scene, where the injured were treated and transported to Rakiraki Hospital for medical attention. As investigations begin, local police are working to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash, ensuring that details will be clarified as they gather further evidence.
This incident is part of an alarming trend of road accidents in Fiji, where road safety has become a crucial topic of conversation amid several recent serious incidents. A similar event, occurring in Wairuku, Rakiraki, involved the death of a passenger and several injuries, emphasizing the urgent need for enhanced safety measures on the roads.
In light of these recent accidents, community leaders and authorities are calling attention to the importance of road safety and adherence to traffic regulations. It is hoped that increased awareness and stricter enforcement will lead to safer road conditions for everyone, thereby preventing such tragedies in the future. The commitment to improving road safety remains essential as the nation reflects on these events and strives for a significant reduction in casualties and injuries on its roads.