The Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Fiji, in collaboration with the Fiji Police Force and local municipal councils, is intensifying road safety enforcement measures during the Easter long weekend. The operation includes random breathalyzer tests, speed checks, vehicle inspections, and monitoring of dangerous driving behaviors to ensure public safety.
LTA Chief Executive Irimaia Rokosawa highlighted that traffic volumes are expected to surge as families travel for holiday gatherings, which amplifies the need for strict adherence to road safety practices. He noted that speeding, fatigue, and reckless driving have been major contributors to serious accidents recently observed on the roads.
“Easter is traditionally a time for reflection and family gatherings, yet it can also bring tragedy due to irresponsible decisions on the road,” Rokosawa stated. He urged drivers, passengers, and pedestrians to adopt responsible behaviors to prevent accidents, emphasizing that road safety is a shared responsibility. Lives can be lost in a split second, and no celebration is worth risking anyone’s safety.
Additionally, Rokosawa reminded the public of the importance of planning for long trips by getting adequate rest and avoiding overloading vehicles. He also reiterated that drivers should refrain from consuming alcohol if they plan to drive, urging them to designate a sober driver if they choose to drink.
The initiative aims not just to enforce penalties for violators but also to cultivate a safer driving environment overall. The LTA is particularly focusing on ensuring that public transportation vehicles comply with safety standards, and it warned that strict disciplinary actions will be taken against operators who disregard regulations.
Rokosawa stressed that recent fatalities on Fiji’s roads underscore the urgent need for better judgment and responsible driving. He noted that the mindset that accidents happen to others must change. All road users are encouraged to comply with safety measures and traffic laws.
In the spirit of promoting a safer Easter, the LTA’s proactive measures serve as a timely reminder that improved road safety depends on a collective commitment by all drivers. Encouraging safer driving behavior fosters a community where everyone values life and the well-being of others during festive celebrations, ultimately contributing to a decrease in road-related tragedies.
Leave a comment