Former Land Transport Authority (LTA) CEO Naisa Tuinaceva has described Fiji’s roads as resembling a “killing field” in light of a disturbing series of fatal road accidents in recent years. During a parliamentary session, Tuinaceva referenced tragic incidents, including the death of a 13-year-old boy in Tacirua and an eight-year-old girl who was killed while crossing the road. He also mentioned a young man’s fatality in Sigatoka as emblematic of this grave issue.
Tuinaceva emphasized that financial compensation cannot substitute for the loss of life or the emotional trauma experienced by grieving families. He advocated for a shift in focus from merely aiding victims to actively preventing future tragedies.
He criticized the mindset that leads to reckless driving, questioning the moral standards of a society that permits such behavior. He pointed out that many accidents involve young drivers and public service vehicles, indicating a broader societal challenge. Speeding is often cited as a significant factor in these accidents, but Tuinaceva urged that negligence is equally culpable.
To tackle this crisis, he called for a comprehensive approach that prioritizes road safety education, highlighting the necessity for drivers to appreciate the value of road rules. He urged stronger enforcement of traffic laws and suggested that reckless driving should be treated as a serious criminal offense rather than a minor infraction.
In a broader context, Tuinaceva’s remarks reflect an urgent need for a cultural shift regarding road safety in Fiji. By fostering a greater respect for human life and accountability among drivers, the country can work towards reducing road fatalities.
In summary, the focus should not only be on healing but also on prevention. There is hope for a positive change if lawmakers, communities, and individuals unite to reinforce road safety measures and cultivate a responsible driving culture in Fiji.
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