Efforts are underway to revive Fiji’s National Road Safety Council (NRSC), as announced by the Minister for Public Works and Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau. In collaboration with the Land Transport Authority (LTA), the initiative aims to establish the necessary regulatory and legislative foundations for the Council’s restoration. The NRSC is poised to lead the charge in enhancing road safety through widespread education campaigns, rigorous law enforcement, and the development of effective policies.
Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau highlighted the initiative’s importance and prioritized the Ministry and LTA’s concerted efforts to rehabilitate the NRSC. This move has gained urgency in response to a concerning rise in road traffic issues. From January to August, over 1,700 traffic infringement notices were issued concerning misconduct by Public Service Vehicle (PSV) drivers and passengers, resulting in 188 drivers facing disciplinary measures.
Originally formed in 1995, the NRSC was essential in advocating for road safety. However, after its merger with the LTA in 2010, the focus shifted mainly to regulatory enforcement, somewhat neglecting educational and awareness efforts. Recently, civil society and road safety advocates have emphasized the need for the NRSC’s independence to effectively fulfill its mission, focusing again on proactive safety measures rather than just enforcement.
Re-establishing the NRSC as an autonomous entity highlights a collective commitment to achieving a safer road environment. The Council aims to address issues like reckless driving and a lack of public awareness, key contributors to notable accidents, especially within the PSV sector. By strengthening educational initiatives and enhancing compliance among drivers, the NRSC aspires to instill a culture of accountability that emphasizes the safety of all road users.
This development is set against a backdrop of broader transport safety reforms in Fiji. The government’s commitment is further evidenced by the LTA’s ongoing consultations to transform the NRSC into an independent statutory entity, thus reinforcing its leadership in significant national safety initiatives. These reforms are crucial, particularly as the nation approaches periods of increased vehicle activity such as festive seasons, when traffic incidents typically surge.
The revival of the NRSC is a promising step not only towards improving road safety metrics but also in significantly reducing traffic-related incidents. By encouraging a shared responsibility between authorities and the public, there is optimism for fewer road accidents and a safer driving environment for everyone in Fiji.