In an effort to enhance road safety and decrease fatalities on Fiji’s roads, the Land Transport Authority (LTA), in collaboration with the Fiji Police Force and other key stakeholders, is set to launch the National Road Safety Week tomorrow. The event will be inaugurated during the Miss Hibiscus Festival in Suva.
The week-long awareness campaign will take place at the Suva Foreshore from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM each day and aims to promote responsible behaviors among drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.
LTA Acting Chief Executive Irimaia Rokosawa emphasized the initiative’s importance in stressing the need for adherence to road safety measures to save lives. Despite a reduction in road fatalities—38 reported as of August 27, 2024, compared to 62 during the same period last year—Rokosawa noted that promoting road safety remains a critical and collective responsibility.
“One of the central messages of National Road Safety Week is to encourage responsible driver behavior, including obeying speed limits, avoiding distractions like mobile phones, and refraining from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs,” he stated.
Drivers are also reminded to wear seatbelts at all times, ensure their vehicles are in safe operating condition, and be considerate of vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists.
For passengers, the emphasis is on consistently wearing seatbelts and encouraging drivers to follow traffic regulations. Rokosawa highlighted that passengers play an essential role in minimizing distractions for the driver to maintain safety.
Pedestrians, identified as particularly vulnerable road users, are advised to utilize designated crossing areas, remain alert while near roads, and avoid jaywalking. Simple actions, such as wearing visible clothing at night and making eye contact with drivers before crossing, can significantly enhance pedestrian safety.
Throughout the week, various activities at the Suva Foreshore will engage the public in road safety awareness. LTA Manager of Road Safety Watilala Fonu mentioned that there will be road safety quizzes and giveaways to test knowledge and reward understanding of key safety practices.
On September 2, a poetry reading event will take place, where participants will express their creative interpretations related to the theme of National Road Safety Week. Additionally, an art exhibition showcasing submissions from schools across Fiji will display the creative talents of young artists while underscoring the road safety message. The artworks from the road safety week art competition will serve as impactful visual reminders of the importance of prioritizing safety on the roads.
The National Road Safety Week activities will also coincide with the Vodafone Friendly North Festival from September 2 to 6 at Ground 1, Subrail Park, Labasa, operating daily from 10 AM to 4 PM. The LTA will provide full services after hours at both the 2024 Miss Hibiscus Festival from 5 PM to 9 PM and at the Vodafone Friendly North Festival from 5 PM to 8 PM.