Road fatalities in the region have surged to 72 as of November 28, a significant increase from the 56 deaths recorded during the same period last year. This troubling trend has prompted officials from the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to highlight the critical need for collaborative operations with the Fiji Police Force.
LTA CEO Irimaia Rokosawa emphasized that the ongoing checkpoints are not merely focused on identifying defective vehicles, but are also aimed at addressing dangerous driving behaviors that have contributed to the alarming rise in fatal accidents. “We are targeting speeding, inattentiveness, impaired driving, and other reckless behaviors that continue to cost lives on our roads,” Mr. Rokosawa noted.
He expressed concern regarding the shifting blame toward officers involved in a tragic accident in Labasa. “It is unfortunate and misleading to direct criticism at officers who were fulfilling their duties to ensure road user safety,” he stated. Addressing allegations circulating online about a checkpoint on Naseakula main road, Rokosawa confirmed that these claims were inaccurate and contradicted the evidence.
He assured the public that the checkpoint adhered to standard operational protocols, stating, “The checkpoint was equipped with standard-issue cones and warning battens, properly positioned for clear visibility.” Furthermore, he mentioned that the street lighting was fully operational on the night of the incident, countering claims that officers were working in inadequate lighting conditions.
A technical assessment conducted after the crash revealed that the vehicle involved was free of mechanical defects. The findings suggested that the driver did not stop as instructed by an authorized officer, raising concerns about driver negligence, particularly given the wet weather conditions and the vehicle’s load of sugarcane.
Mr. Rokosawa underscored the importance of relying on verified information amid public speculation and assured that the LTA is committed to supporting ongoing investigations. He emphasized the authority’s willingness to enhance checkpoint visibility and procedures where necessary, welcoming constructive feedback from the community.
The LTA is committed to prioritizing safety for both officers and the public, aiming to ensure accountability where it is deserved to prevent similar tragedies in the future. In these challenging times, the agency continues to reinforce its dedication to road safety, encouraging a collaborative effort to protect lives on the road.
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