Former Land Transport Authority (LTA) CEO Naisa Tuinaceva has expressed grave concern regarding the dire state of Fiji’s roads, describing them as akin to a “killing field” due to the alarming increase in serious road accidents in recent years. During a parliamentary session this week, Tuinaceva highlighted several tragic incidents, including the deaths of a 13-year-old boy, an eight-year-old girl crossing the road with her father, and a young man in Sigatoka.
He emphasized that no amount of compensation could replace lost lives or heal the trauma experienced by grieving families. Instead, he argued that the focus should shift to addressing the underlying causes of this crisis rather than merely providing aid to victims.
Tuinaceva pointed out that the issue extends beyond mere driver error, alluding to a troubling pattern of intentional negligence on the roads. He questioned the societal implications of allowing reckless driving to persist, condemning a culture that seemingly treats lives as expendable and suggesting that this represents a loss of moral integrity.
Citing alarming statistics, he noted that many accidents are linked to young drivers and commercial vehicles exceeding speed limits, which he identifies as a central factor in this escalating crisis. He called for a fundamental reevaluation of road safety practices, stressing that drivers must not only be aware of traffic rules but also appreciate the vital nature of these regulations concerning human life.
Tuinaceva urged for enhanced prevention efforts, advocating for stricter enforcement of road safety laws and a stronger societal response to reckless driving. He emphasized that driving irresponsibly should be seen as a criminal act, and that it is essential to deliver a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
This represents a significant opportunity for Fiji to overhaul its road safety culture, perhaps leading to legislative changes and community education campaigns that prioritize human life and responsible driving. By uniting in the face of this crisis, there’s hope for a brighter and safer future on the roads for all Fijians.
In summary, Tuinaceva’s remarks highlight the urgent need for a societal shift towards accountability and safety on Fiji’s roads, advocating for a united front against reckless driving and a commitment to prioritizing life and safety above all else.
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