Motorists in Fiji will face stricter penalties for road violations as authorities respond to a growing road safety crisis that saw a record 83 fatalities last year. The Chief Executive of the Land Transport Authority, Irimaia Rokosawa, announced new measures, including increased fines, enhanced use of speed cameras, and stricter licensing regulations aimed at addressing this alarming trend.
Recent data presented by the Fiji Police Force at the National Transport Infrastructure Consultative Forum indicates a troubling rise in road deaths, up from 66 the previous year. Rokosawa emphasized that speeding is the primary cause of fatal accidents, underscoring the urgent need for improved enforcement technologies.
Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu pointed out that dangerous driving behaviors continue despite existing public awareness initiatives. He highlighted common traffic offenses such as speeding and reckless driving, urging drivers to remain vigilant and responsible behind the wheel.
To improve compliance rates, authorities noted the effectiveness of stationary speed cameras in certain areas, yet observed that many motorists ignore speed limits where monitoring is absent. In response, the Land Transport Authority has broadened its enforcement capabilities, introducing portable speed cameras and revising licensing guidelines. These updates will see longer penalties for provisional licenses and increased fines for repeat offenders.
Rokosawa indicated that the previous penalties had failed to adequately deter risky behavior, comparing them to “an occupational hazard.” Therefore, the government has endorsed stiffer fines across all speeding categories to encourage safer driving habits.
While these enhanced measures aim to tackle the rising mortality rates on Fiji’s roads, authorities caution that enforcement alone will not suffice. They stress that drivers must take responsibility for their actions and adhere to road regulations to prevent further tragedies. This comprehensive strategy reflects a commitment to enhancing road safety and fostering a sense of responsibility among all drivers, which is crucial for reducing accidents and saving lives on Fiji’s roads.