Drivers along Queen Elizabeth Drive in Suva have been seen avoiding newly installed speed humps, frequently swerving into oncoming traffic. This raises significant safety concerns as some motorists navigate dangerously to evade the raised bumps, as highlighted in a video shared on social media. The footage illustrates a vehicle narrowly missing a confrontation with another car while attempting to dodge a speed hump near the President’s State House.
Comments from viewers of the video suggest that some drivers are deterred by protruding “nails” or “bolts” on the speed humps, which the opposition Member of Parliament, Ketan Lal, has described as a “serious safety hazard” pointing to negligence from the Fiji Roads Authority (FRA). In response, the FRA has stated that the issue has been resolved by trimming the excessive bolts to create safer, flatter humps.
Furthermore, local driver testimonials have surfaced, with one individual, Michael Fong, recounting an unsettling near-miss with a public bus while also trying to avoid the humps. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has stated they will respond to the situation in due course.
The brightly colored yellow humps have been designed to slow traffic, yet their current state has left many motorists feeling unsafe. The prevailing condition of road safety on Queen Elizabeth Drive reflects broader community concerns, echoing sentiments expressed in previous incidents where multiple accidents resulted in injuries. Residents previously petitioned authorities for improved safety measures due to the troubling frequency of accidents in the area, demonstrating a community commitment to enhancing road safety.
The recent conditions signal a need for improved management and design of road safety measures in Suva. While the situation may appear precarious, there is hope that the FRA and LTA will continue to prioritize road safety, further encouraging drivers to adhere to safer driving practices and creating an environment that protects all road users. With increased awareness and community engagement, there is optimism that appropriate measures will be taken to improve safety on Queen Elizabeth Drive and other similar high-traffic areas in Fiji.
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