Lautoka Pushes for Tougher Litter Penalties Over Bus Oil Leaks

The Lautoka City Council has taken significant action this year by issuing 46 penalty notices specifically targeting litter offences related to bus leakages. According to Shalend Singh, the head of services at the council, these fines are part of a broader effort, with a total of 239 bookings carried out in 2025. The issue of leakages is attributed to several factors, including aging buses, poor road conditions, lack of preventive maintenance, and driver negligence.

Singh emphasized the environmental hazards posed by such leakages, categorizing oil spills as dangerous litter under the Litter Act 2008. The repercussions of oil runoff are severe, leading to marine pollution and damage to marine life. Moreover, oil leaks present slip hazards and deteriorate the bus station pavement. The fixed penalty for such offences stands at $40. However, Singh criticized these fines as insufficient deterrents and urged the Environment Ministry to expedite a review and enhance penalties under the Litter Act 2008.

Despite ongoing advocacy and regular enforcement by the council, Singh called for increased involvement from the Land Transport Authority (LTA). Additionally, the Lautoka City Council plans a $3 million investment to upgrade the bus station, replacing the surface with concrete pavement to address the challenges posed by oil leakages. Cooperation from bus companies is sought to prevent future leaks that could undermine these improvements.

This issue of weak deterrents under the Litter Act is echoed across various regions. Similar concerns have been voiced recently, with many stakeholders arguing for stronger penalties and better enforcement to protect public spaces and the environment. Initiatives such as training litter prevention officers and community engagement campaigns are underway across Fiji to promote environmental stewardship. These efforts reflect a growing commitment to ecological responsibility and civic pride, aiming for a future where Fiji’s environmental health is safeguarded for future generations.