The Labasa Carrier Association is calling on the Government to investigate the Land Transport Authority (LTA) for not resolving access issues faced by carrier drivers. The association claims that the LTA has imposed restrictions on operations, limiting drivers to fixed routes, whereas broader access had been permitted in the past.
Association president Mukesh Chand mentioned that after discussions with the LTA regional manager, drivers were instructed to use a “Charter” board on their vehicles to operate beyond assigned points. However, complaints have arisen as drivers later received warnings from LTA officials and police regarding these operations.
In a recent email to the LTA CEO, Chand received a response stating that operations are restricted to designated routes (A to B), with no written justification provided for this regulatory change, despite the association renewing access permits quarterly. He highlighted concerns about a perceived double standard and suggested that if the Government had instituted this regulation without consultation, it would be unfair.
Driver Satish Lal has faced delays in obtaining a full-time carrier license since 2018, with multiple applications remaining on hold. He urges clarity from both Government and LTA leaders. Veteran driver Ravitesh Chand expressed that such restrictions prevent them from adequately serving customers, particularly during the festive season when families in remote areas rely heavily on their services. He called for prompt action to clarify LTA’s policies.
In response, LTA chief executive officer Irimaia Rokosawa explained that applications for operations beyond fixed points are no longer being processed, as changes to Section 65 (3) (c) of the Land Transport Act have been implemented. This revised policy aims to define terminating points strictly as routes from A to B while allowing designated stops in between, intended to ensure fair market distribution and protect other transport services from competition.
The LTA encourages carrier drivers to apply for Licensed Carrier permits to operate legally as Public Service Vehicles.
This situation brings to light the challenges faced by transport providers and their vital role in community connectivity. With ongoing discussions between the Labasa Carrier Association and the LTA, there is hope that a fair resolution can be reached that will facilitate better service for the drivers and the communities they serve. Continued dialogue may pave the way for more inclusive policies that benefit both the drivers and their passengers.
In summary, the tensions between the Labasa Carrier Association and the LTA may lead to improved communication and a reevaluation of transport regulations, ensuring that the needs of these essential service providers and the communities they support are met more effectively.
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