The Land Transport Authority (LTA) in Fiji is ramping up efforts to enhance road safety by increasing the deployment of fixed and portable speed cameras in response to a troubling surge in road fatalities, especially those due to speeding. Minister for Transport Ro Filipe Tuisawau disclosed that there are currently 14 fixed-speed cameras operating across 31 chosen locations, while the LTA has acquired 12 new portable speed cameras to reinforce mobile enforcement.
The effectiveness of these camera-based enforcement measures is evident, as traffic infringement notices have risen from 143,577 in 2023 to 169,769 in 2024, with a notable 12,603 violations recorded solely through portable speed cameras in early 2025. Minister Tuisawau emphasized that speeding has consistently been the leading cause of fatal accidents in Fiji, accounting for 34 of the 77 fatalities in 2023 and 24 of the 66 fatalities in 2024. As of early August 2025, 23 out of 39 recorded fatalities were related to speeding.
In addition to expanding camera coverage, the Minister acknowledged concerns regarding occasional technical malfunctions of speed cameras and committed to addressing these issues. He reiterated that the LTA and the Ministry of Transport will continue to collaborate with various stakeholders to fortify law enforcement, promote public awareness, and encourage responsible driving habits throughout the nation.
This initiative aligns with previous efforts by the LTA, which earlier planned installations of fixed speed and red-light cameras, recognizing the need for a comprehensive approach to reducing traffic incidents. The ongoing development of safety measures serves to foster a culture of responsibility among drivers and aims to significantly lower the alarming rate of road fatalities. With these advancements, there is a hopeful prospect for a future where road safety is prioritized, leading to safer journeys for all road users in Fiji.
Leave a comment