Former Land Transport Authority (LTA) CEO Naisa Tuinaceva has expressed grave concerns regarding the state of Fiji’s roads, describing them as a “killing field” in light of a troubling increase in serious road accidents in recent years. Speaking in Parliament, Tuinaceva highlighted several tragic incidents, including the deaths of a 13-year-old boy in Tacirua, an eight-year-old girl who was killed while crossing the road with her father on Edinburgh Drive, and a young man who also lost his life in Sigatoka recently.
Tuinaceva underscored that financial compensation is inadequate to remedy the loss of life or the trauma experienced by the victims’ families. He emphasized the urgent need to address the underlying causes of this alarming trend. “The pressing issue is not just how we support victims, but how we can prevent future victims,” he noted.
He pointed out that road accidents are increasingly attributed not merely to speeding but to intentional negligence, prompting serious questions about societal values and priorities. “What kind of society are we if we accept reckless driving that endangers lives? It suggests a society that has lost its moral compass,” he stated.
Statistics reveal a disturbing pattern, with many accidents involving young drivers, public service vehicles, and heavy commercial vehicles. Speeding remains the primary cause of these incidents, and Tuinaceva called this issue a failure to respect human life and adhere to the law.
He insisted that it is not sufficient for drivers to merely understand road rules; they must appreciate their significance and the importance of responsibility, respect, and the sanctity of life. This philosophy, he advocates, should be an integral part of driving education programs.
Tuinaceva urged for a more robust effort in preventing accidents by calling for stricter enforcement of road safety laws and a steadfast commitment to eliminating reckless driving. He proclaimed, “Speeding kills. We must send a clear message that such behavior will not be tolerated and that those who endanger lives must face serious consequences.” He argued that reckless driving should not be perceived as a trivial issue but rather treated as a criminal act.
In conclusion, this call to action serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility towards ensuring road safety. By prioritizing education and legal enforcement, Fiji has the chance to foster a culture that respects life on the roads, paving the way for a safer environment for all.
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