Road safety in Fiji is under intensified scrutiny as factors such as over-speeding, reckless driving, and deficiencies in the licensing system contribute to approximately 80 percent of road accidents. Public Works Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau has called for immediate action, highlighting that bureaucratic delays are obstructing necessary reforms aimed at enhancing road safety. He insists on the importance of a comprehensive review of the licensing process to mitigate these issues.
Recognizing the urgency of the matter, Minister Tuisawau emphasized the need for awareness campaigns combined with compliance checks, particularly as the festive season approaches. He noted that taking adequate breaks and promoting awareness among drivers are essential steps as people prepare for holiday travel. “Having a good rest by the roadside and raising awareness are critical as we prepare for the holidays,” he stated.
In alignment with these objectives, authorities plan to ramp up alcohol testing and other enforcement strategies to curb reckless driving during this high-traffic time of year. Assistant Minister for Transport, Naisa Tuinaceva, echoed Tuisawau’s statements, confirming ongoing initiatives that focus on educational programs aimed at reminding drivers of their responsibilities and the laws governing road use.
Given that the festive season often leads to heightened road activity, the Ministry of Public Works is partnering with various stakeholders to implement more rigorous monitoring and public awareness campaigns, all aimed at improving safety on roads for all users. Encouragingly, recent statistics show that road fatalities have decreased from 71 to 51 compared to the same time last year, indicating that enhanced road safety measures can lead to significant improvements.
The collaborative efforts involving the Land Transport Authority, the Fiji Police Force, and local authorities seek to cultivate a safer driving environment as the community gears up for the holidays. With a focus on vigilance and adherence to traffic regulations, there is hope that this festive season can be marked not only by celebration but also by increased safety for all road users.