In an effort to enhance road safety and decrease fatalities on Fiji’s roads, the Land Transport Authority, in collaboration with the Fiji Police Force and various key stakeholders, is set to launch the National Road Safety Week tomorrow. The event will kick off at the Miss Hibiscus Festival in Suva.
This week-long program will take place at the Suva Foreshore daily from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM, with the goal of promoting responsible behaviors among drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. LTA Acting Chief Executive Irimaia Rokosawa emphasized the significance of following road safety measures as a vital step toward saving lives.
With ongoing concerns regarding road fatalities—reporting 38 deaths as of August 27, 2024, compared to 62 for the same period last year—Rokosawa noted that this campaign serves as a crucial reminder that road safety is a shared responsibility.
A key message for National Road Safety Week is the promotion of responsible driving behavior, which includes obeying speed limits, avoiding distractions like mobile phones, and never driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drivers are also encouraged to always wear seatbelts, ensure their vehicles are roadworthy, and be attentive to vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.
Regarding passengers, Rokosawa highlighted the importance of wearing seatbelts at all times and encouraging drivers to follow traffic rules. Passengers play a critical role in minimizing distractions for the driver, ensuring their behavior does not compromise safety.
Pedestrians, being among the most vulnerable road users, are urged to use designated crossing areas, stay vigilant while walking near roads, and avoid jaywalking. Wearing easily visible clothing at night and making eye contact with drivers before crossing are simple yet effective ways to improve pedestrian safety.
Throughout National Road Safety Week, the Suva Foreshore will be filled with activities aimed at engaging the public in road safety awareness. LTA Manager Road Safety Watilala Fonu mentioned that road safety quizzes and giveaways will assess participants’ knowledge and reward them for understanding key safety practices.
A poetry reading event will take place on September 2, emphasizing the theme of National Road Safety Week, with participants sharing creative interpretations of the importance of road safety. Furthermore, an art exhibition featuring submissions from schools nationwide will display the talents of young artists while reinforcing the road safety message. These artworks, part of the road safety week art competition, will serve as powerful visual reminders of the need to prioritize safety on Fiji’s roads.
In addition, activities for National Road Safety Week will be conducted concurrently at the Vodafone Friendly North Festival from September 2-6 at Ground 1, Subrail Park, Labasa, daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. The LTA will also provide full services after hours at the 2024 Miss Hibiscus Festival from 5 PM to 9 PM and at the Vodafone Friendly North Festival from 5 PM to 8 PM.