The Fiji Police Force has announced an upcoming nationwide effort to address reckless driving following the tragic fatalities of five individuals on Fiji’s roads within a short span of six days. Director of Traffic, Acting Senior Superintendent of Police Mosese Waqalevu, emphasized collaborating with the Land Transport Authority to carry out a National Joint Operation this October. This initiative will specifically target speeding, drink driving, and reckless overtaking, aiming to enhance road safety across the nation.
ASP Waqalevu has highlighted the critical role of community involvement, noting that despite widespread public awareness efforts, drivers frequently neglect traffic regulations, thereby endangering themselves and others. The police continue to offer road coverage, but emphasize that road safety is a shared responsibility that requires collective action from all road users.
The new operation will involve radar checks to monitor speeding and random breath tests to detect drunk drivers, with sustained efforts planned through the festive season to curb violations. ASP Waqalevu also pointed out that families have a vital role in encouraging responsible driving behaviors, such as urging their loved ones not to drive under the influence and to adhere to speed limits.
This move recalls recent holiday periods when numerous traffic infractions were reported by the Fiji Police Force. During the recent holiday season, nearly 934 traffic tickets were issued, with a substantial portion related to speeding and alcohol-impaired driving. Such data highlights the persistent challenges that speeding poses, as noted by Assistant Commissioner for Police Operations, Livai Driu. He reiterated that excessive speed remains a dominant cause of road accidents, underscoring the importance of adhering to speed limits and practicing cautious behavior on the road.
The initiative doesn’t just rely on enforcement; there is an ongoing effort to deepen public awareness about road safety and the need for personal accountability in making roads safer for everyone. It is a hopeful endeavor toward reducing traffic accidents and fostering an environment where driving is conducted responsibly and safely, especially during busy holiday periods when road traffic often increases.
Overall, these collaborative efforts between law enforcement and the community aim to promote safer driving conditions and prevent further road tragedies, highlighting a collective commitment to public safety and awareness.
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