The front page of The Fiji Times for December 4 highlights three important stories.

First, the government has introduced stringent measures aimed at ensuring the protection and welfare of children. Among these regulations is a penalty of up to five years in prison for individuals caught downloading or sharing child pornography, reflecting a serious commitment to safeguarding minors in Fiji.

In another significant report, a father is expressing frustration with law enforcement after being unable to identify a body believed to be that of his missing son. Auyub Khan’s request for family members to assist in the identification was reportedly denied, raising concerns about the protocols in place for handling such sensitive situations.

Additionally, steps are being taken towards sustainable tourism on Vanua Levu. A firm has been commissioned to conduct a Strategic Environmental Social Assessment (SESA) to evaluate potential environmental and social impacts as part of the integrated tourism master plan.

The article further emphasizes ongoing discussions in Parliament regarding vehicle emissions, led by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who mentioned the potential reintroduction of spot checks on roads to monitor emissions. Concerns were raised by Opposition MP Rinesh Sharma about high levels of pollution caused by poorly maintained vehicles. Mr. Rabuka noted existing regulations aimed at minimizing emissions during vehicle license renewals.

Moreover, the article underlines the need for improved road safety measures alongside emission control. It highlights the dire condition of road markings in the capital, Suva, pointing out that inadequate visibility during poor weather poses significant risks to drivers. A call to action is made for the authorities to prioritize repairs and maintenance of road safety infrastructure to prevent future accidents.

In conclusion, this article presents a call for a dual focus on enhancing both environmental compliance and road safety. With proactive measures, Fiji can work towards creating a safer driving experience that respects environmental standards, which is a hopeful vision for the community.