Road users in Tavua are being called upon to exercise heightened vigilance and responsibility following a tragic accident that resulted in the death of a Year 9 student. The incident transpired yesterday morning when the victim was on a bus journey from Waikubukubu to Tavua town. After the bus made a stop at approximately 7 am, the boy exited to permit other passengers to disembark. Sadly, as the bus started to move, he pursued it, lost his footing, and fell, leading to a fatal outcome.
Irimaia Rokosawa, Chief Executive of the Land Transport Authority, expressed profound sadness regarding the incident, describing it as a heartbreaking reminder of the critical need for enhanced road safety practices. This month has already witnessed the loss of two young lives due to road incidents, underscoring the urgent nature of the situation.
Rokosawa emphasized several important points, particularly urging Public Service Vehicle (PSV) drivers to avoid picking up or dropping off passengers in hazardous locations, such as the middle of the road. He also encouraged parents and guardians to engage their children in conversations about road safety. Additionally, he implored all drivers to act responsibly and for pedestrians to stay alert, recognizing that even a brief moment of negligence can have devastating consequences.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of a recent tragedy in Nadi, where a 12-year-old student was killed after being thrown from a moving vehicle. Livai Driu, Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations, commented on the necessity of driver accountability and the ongoing challenge of ensuring road safety, particularly during busy periods and festive occasions.
There is hope that with increased community awareness and active engagement, safer road practices can be cultivated. By nurturing a culture of responsibility and attentiveness, the aim is to avert future tragedies and safeguard the lives of vulnerable road users, especially children. Collective efforts from drivers and pedestrians alike are vital in ensuring roads are safer for all.
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