SUVA, Fiji (14 November 2024): Additional traffic patrols and checkpoints will be deployed at high-risk areas and accident-prone intersections by the Land Transport Authority and Fiji Police Force joint enforcement teams to monitor and manage road safety, says Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport Honourable Ro Filipe Tuisawau, following a serious traffic accident yesterday afternoon in Vitogo, along Kings Road, involving a bus and a twin cab utility vehicle that has left 18 people hospitalized at the Lautoka Hospital.
Minister Tuisawau extended his sympathies to the injured individuals and their families, and highlighted the urgent need for heightened vigilance and strict adherence to road safety regulations among all road users.
He said the National Joint Operations Order between the LTA, Fiji Police and Municipal Council enforcement officers was aimed at enhancing road safety, curbing road fatalities, and enforcing strict adherence to road rules and regulations.
“The launch of this joint initiative addresses a pressing concern around road safety, particularly with the festive season fast approaching. Running from November 1, 2024, to January 31, 2025, the operation coincides with a period of heightened road traffic from holiday activities, family gatherings, and celebrations,” Hon. Tuisawau said.
“The recent signing of the joint operations order—featuring collaboration with municipal councils—marks a coordinated response to the rising number of road accidents, which have resulted in severe injuries and fatalities. This partnership emphasizes a unified approach to enforcement, with specific initiatives aimed at protecting all road users and promoting responsible driving behaviours.”
Hon. Tuisawau said these efforts formed a core part of the national enforcement strategy, designed to decrease road accidents during high-traffic periods. In light of increased road activity due to seasonal festivities, Minister Tuisawau highlighted the critical importance of vigilance and strict adherence to road regulations, urging all drivers to prioritize safety and responsibility.
He also highlighted a troubling trend of non-compliance with road safety measures despite significant awareness and enforcement efforts led by the LTA, Fiji Police and other stakeholders.
“The unfortunate incident yesterday is a stark reminder of the critical importance of adhering to road safety rules. While we have made strides in promoting safe driving behaviour, incidents like these show that more work is needed to address the ongoing disregard for road safety,” Hon. Tuisawau said.
“The current road safety campaign, ‘Drive Safe, Celebrate Responsibly’, continues to encourage safe driving and heightened awareness. Through social media, radio, and public service announcements, this campaign promotes planning safe journeys, avoiding risky behaviours, and respecting other road users.”
Hon. Minister Tuisawau called on all Fijians to join in a collective commitment to road safety and emphasized the message that road safety was a shared responsibility.
“As of November 11, 2024, road fatalities stand at 51, a decrease from 71 during the same period last year. While this reduction highlights the positive impact of safe driving behaviours, incidents like the accident in Vitogo shows that more needs to be done to drive the message that road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” he said.
The Hon. Minister reaffirmed that the Government and LTA remained steadfast in their commitment to reducing traffic incidents and ensuring a safer Fiji for all.
