Former Chief Executive Officer of the Land Transport Authority (LTA), Naisa Tuinaceva, has described the state of Fiji’s roads as resembling a “killing field” due to a concerning increase in serious road accidents in recent years. Speaking during a parliamentary session, Tuinaceva highlighted tragic incidents, including the deaths of a 13-year-old boy in Tacirua, an eight-year-old girl who was hit while crossing the road, and a young man who lost his life in Sigatoka.
He emphasized that no compensation can replace the loss of such young lives or heal the trauma inflicted on their families. Tuinaceva called for more than just remedial measures; he urged a focus on addressing the underlying issues contributing to this alarming trend.
Tuinaceva criticized the current situation, stating that the increase in accidents is not solely due to speeding, but also a reflection of intentional negligence. He questioned the moral compass of a society that permits such reckless driving behavior and views lives as dispensable.
He pointed out that many of the accidents involve young and inexperienced drivers and emphasized that the leading cause of these incidents is speeding, particularly among heavy vehicles and public service vehicles. According to him, this issue extends beyond simple driver error; it indicates a systemic failure to value human life and adhere to the law.
He urged for a change in how driving education programs are approached, advocating for a stronger emphasis on the responsibility and respect for life. Tuinaceva stressed the need for stricter enforcement of road safety laws, making it clear that reckless driving is a criminal offense that must be treated with seriousness.
The recognition of this issue highlights the urgent need for collective action to enhance road safety measures in Fiji. By focusing on prevention, improving education around safe driving practices, and enforcing stricter penalties, it is possible to create a safer environment for all road users.
It is indeed crucial for communities to come together to advocate for road safety, as these changes could save lives and foster a culture of responsibility among drivers. This is not only a call to action for authorities but also for every citizen to partake in making roads safer for everyone.
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