Road accidents in Fiji are significantly influenced by over-speeding, careless driving, and flaws within the licensing system, which collectively account for 80 percent of incidents on the roads. Ro Filipe Tuisawau, the Public Works Minister, has emphasized the urgent need for action to prevent further loss of life. He mentioned that governmental delays are hindering progress towards enhancing road safety, calling for a thorough review of the licensing process.
Minister Tuisawau stated the importance of awareness campaigns and compliance checks, noting the necessity of combining these efforts to address road safety effectively, especially with the festive season approaching. “Having a good rest by the roadside and raising awareness are critical as we prepare for the holidays,” he underscored.
As part of these efforts, authorities will intensify alcohol testing and other enforcement measures to discourage reckless driving during this busy period. Assistant Minister for Transport, Naisa Tuinaceva, echoed the Minister’s concerns, affirming ongoing initiatives to improve road safety through educational programs that remind drivers of their duties and the laws they must adhere to while driving.
With the festive season typically leading to increased road usage, the Ministry of Public Works is collaborating with various stakeholders to implement stricter monitoring and awareness campaigns to make roads safer for everyone. This proactive approach is supported by a recent decline in road fatalities, which have dropped to 51 from 71 at the same period last year. This positive trend serves as encouragement that concerted efforts in road safety can indeed yield favorable outcomes.
The ongoing collaboration between the Land Transport Authority, the Fiji Police Force, and other local authorities aims to establish a safe driving environment. As the community prepares for the holidays, it is vital for all road users to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic laws, ensuring the safety of all during a period known for increased traffic and potential hazards.