The Land Transport Authority (LTA) of Fiji has reiterated the importance of road safety following the tragic death of 14-year-old Eliki Delai, who lost his life in an accident while attempting to board a bus in Tavua. LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa expressed sorrow over this preventable incident, emphasizing that drivers have a duty to ensure the safety of all passengers before moving their vehicles.
Preliminary reports from the Fiji Police Force indicate that Eliki was traveling on a bus towards Tavua town early in the morning. After the bus reached its designated stop, he disembarked to allow other passengers to exit. Sadly, as the bus began to move, he attempted to board again but slipped, resulting in the tragic accident.
In light of this incident, Rokosawa urged all Public Service Vehicle (PSV) drivers to be vigilant and to ensure that passengers are securely seated or have completely exited the vehicle before driving. He highlighted the necessity for drivers to avoid stopping in unsafe locations, such as the middle of the road, roundabouts, or traffic lights.
Rokosawa’s remarks resonate with a broader message about the shared responsibility of road safety among drivers, pedestrians, and passengers. He stated that road safety begins with each individual’s commitment to exercising caution, particularly in areas with heavy foot traffic, such as near schools and residential zones. “One life lost is one too many,” he emphasized, calling for an urgent cultural shift towards safety on the roads.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers present on roadways. It invites both drivers and passengers to participate actively in maintaining safety while traveling. Through heightened awareness and adherence to road safety measures, there is hope that such tragic events can be prevented in the future, ultimately fostering safer transport environments for everyone.
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