Motorists are being urged to exercise caution while driving on Queens Road in Namaka, Nadi, according to Senior Superintendent of Police Iakobo Vaisewa. This advisory comes in light of the presence of street dwellers who have been observed begging in the middle of the road, particularly near Prince Charles Park.
During recent discussions, SSP Vaisewa highlighted the need for community awareness and cooperation from relevant agencies to address the situation, as the safety of road users is at risk. He noted that previous efforts to return some street dwellers to their families were not permanent solutions, with individuals returning to the streets shortly after.
SSP Vaisewa specifically warned that many of the individuals begging may have underlying mental health issues, making them unpredictable. “Motorists should be considerate and reduce their speed when seeing these individuals in the roadway. We will take action if these individuals obstruct traffic or break other laws,” he stated.
Despite multiple attempts to contact Saliceni Raiwalui, the chairperson of Nadi’s board of special administrators, there was no response.
This situation highlights the broader need for a compassionate approach to assist those in distress while also ensuring the safety of all road users. Improved coordination among local agencies could lead to more effective solutions for the homeless and ensure a safer environment for driving in Nadi.
In summary, police are calling for caution from drivers in Nadi due to street dwellers begging in the roads, advocating for community awareness, and urging for cross-agency cooperation to find lasting solutions. This presents an opportunity for communities to unite and support vulnerable individuals while prioritizing safety on the streets.
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