The Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Fiji is in the final stages of establishing new regulations to implement random drug testing for public service vehicle (PSV) license holders. This initiative comes in response to escalating concerns about drug use among taxi drivers, particularly those who work extended hours to meet financial pressures. Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa has highlighted the necessity of these regulations to clearly define the LTA’s enforcement capabilities, akin to existing laws that govern drunk driving under the Land Transport (Breath Test and Analysis) Regulations 2000.
The LTA is looking towards neighboring countries for inspiration in the formation of these drug testing protocols. A collaborative effort with the Fiji Police Force has been initiated, where police will administer the tests and retain the legal power to make arrests. This partnership is aimed at ensuring that actions against drivers found under the influence are conducted in a legally sound manner.
Rokosawa has stated the LTA’s commitment to a zero-tolerance policy regarding illicit drug use within the PSV sector, indicating that any driver or permit holder caught using drugs will face serious consequences. He underscored that driving under the influence poses a significant risk to public safety and that the authority will take necessary actions that could lead to the suspension or cancellation of driving licenses.
Between January 1 and October 27 of this year, the LTA carried out a total of 559 show cause proceedings nationwide, resulting in 15 cases involving PSV drivers, with 11 suspensions and four cancellations recorded. Furthermore, Rokosawa reminded permit holders that all PSV permits, excluding those for rental and road carriers, are scheduled for renewal on November 27, with compliance history, including any drug-related offenses, being a key factor in this process.
This proactive measure not only aims to bolster the safety of Fiji’s public transportation system but also reflects a significant step towards ensuring the well-being of both drivers and passengers. The LTA’s dedication to collaborating with various stakeholders is likely to create a more responsible driving culture and decrease drug-related incidents within the transportation industry.