The Labasa Carrier Association is calling on the Government to look into the ongoing access issues faced by carrier drivers due to restrictions imposed by the Land Transport Authority (LTA). While drivers previously enjoyed flexible routes, current policies limit them to fixed points, which has raised concerns within the community.
Mukesh Chand, the president of the association, reported that after a discussion with the LTA regional manager, drivers were instructed to display a “Charter” board in their vehicles to operate outside designated routes. However, Chand claims that soon after, LTA officials and local police issued warnings to drivers against this.
In correspondence with the LTA CEO, Chand received confirmation that operations are restricted strictly from point A to B. He highlighted that despite renewing access permits every three months, no formal written explanation has been provided for this shift in policy. Chand emphasized the need for an investigation, arguing that any changes the Government may have implemented must be justified and transparently communicated.
Drivers like Satish Lal, who has been seeking a full-time carrier license since 2018, expressed frustrations over the ongoing hold on applications. Lal and others, like Ravitesh Chand, have voiced concerns that these restrictions hinder their ability to serve customers, particularly during peak times such as the festive season.
In response, LTA’s CEO Irimaia Rokosawa pointed out that changes to Section 65 (3) (c) of the Land Transport Act have led to the current operational limitations. He clarified that while routes can include various stops, the focus remains on maintaining orderly market conditions and protecting existing services such as buses and taxis from unfair competition.
To operate legally, the LTA encourages carrier drivers to apply for Licensed Carrier (LC) permits to become recognized as Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators.
This situation underscores the need for open communication between the LTA, the Government, and carrier drivers to ensure that all parties can effectively contribute to a transportation framework that serves the community’s needs. It is hopeful that a resolution can be reached that restores flexibility for drivers while ensuring fair competition in the transport sector.
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