The Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Fiji is intensifying its efforts to enhance road safety by cracking down on buses that do not meet safety standards. In a recent statement, Chief Executive Irimaia Rokosawa revealed that from January to October, the LTA conducted over 1,200 inspections and issued more than 500 defect orders to unsafe vehicles. Impressively, around 400 buses have since been repaired and returned to service.
To further promote safety, the LTA is collaborating with the Fiji Police Force to carry out roadside checks for on-the-spot inspections. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to ensure compliance among Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) and address unsafe driving practices. The authority reported over 2,000 speeding fines issued to bus drivers and 25 tickets for careless driving, highlighting the need for stricter adherence to road safety laws.
Rokosawa emphasized that bus operators must prioritize the maintenance of their fleets to ensure passenger safety. Unsafe buses will be prohibited from operating on Fiji’s roads, and the LTA’s commitment to enforcement reflects its dedication to safeguarding public transport.
These proactive measures echo previous enforcement initiatives that sought to address growing concerns around reckless driving behaviors, particularly in light of an increase in road accidents involving PSVs. Encouragingly, the LTA is optimistic that this ongoing crackdown will foster a culture of accountability among drivers while leading to safer journeys for all Fijians.
By reinforcing stringent safety protocols and enhancing collaboration with law enforcement, the LTA is making significant strides towards improving public transport safety across Fiji. These efforts signify a hopeful and positive shift towards a more secure driving environment for everyone, ultimately benefiting the well-being of the community at large.