SUVA, Fiji (27 March 2025): The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is urging all road users to exercise greater vigilance and responsibility after a tragic accident in Davota, Tavua yesterdy morning claimed the life of a Year 9 student.
According to preliminary reports from the Fiji Police Force, the victim was travelling in a bus from Waikubukubu to Tavua town after 7am, and upon reaching a designated stop, he got off to make room for other passengers to disembark.
It is alleged that when the bus started to move, the victim ran after it and while trying to board, slipped, resulting in the unfortunate accident which claimed his life.
LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa extended his condolences to the grieving family.
“The LTA is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of two young lives on our roads this month alone — a stark and heartbreaking reminder of the urgent need for greater vigilance and adherence to road safety measures by all road users,” the CEO said.
“Every life lost is a devastating blow to families, communities, and our nation. When those lives are young and full of promise, the loss is even more profound. These tragedies are not just statistics — they are children who will never make it home.”
Mr Rokosawa emphasized that all road users needed to remain alert and cautious, especially when boarding or exiting vehicles.
He reminded public service vehicle (PSV) drivers of their duty to prioritize passenger safety, as outlined in the PSV Drivers Code of Conduct.
“PSV drivers must ensure passengers are securely seated or have safely exited the vehicle before proceeding. Additionally, PSV drivers must avoid picking up or dropping off passengers in unsafe locations, such as the middle of the road, roundabouts, traffic lights, or bridges.
“We must all recognize that road safety is a shared responsibility. Drivers, pedestrians, and passengers must commit to safer behaviours and exercise heightened caution, especially near schools, residential areas, and busy roadways.
“Drivers must remain attentive, obey speed limits, and prioritize the safety of vulnerable road users, particularly children. Pedestrians — especially young ones — need to be guided on safe crossing practices, while passengers must exercise care when entering and exiting vehicles,” the CEO said.
He also urged parents and guardians to reinforce road safety awareness at home by educating children about safe behaviours — like crossing at designated crossings, boarding and disembarking PSVs and staying alert near roads.
Mr Rokosawa said the Authority would continue to strengthen enforcement, expand public education campaigns, and work closely with key partners to ensure safety remains a top priority on our roads.
“However, enforcement alone is not enough — lasting change requires every Fijian to play their part,” he said.
“We implore parents and guardians to talk to their children about road safety, drivers to be more responsible behind the wheel, and pedestrians to stay alert and cautious. One moment of carelessness can result in a lifetime of heartache.
“Let’s not wait for another young life to be lost before we take action. Road safety starts with each of us — and one life lost is one too many.”
To ensure safety on our roads, members of the public are urged to assist the LTA by reporting dangerous driving or poor driving behaviours via our LTA complaints platforms – Text to 582, email help@lta.com.fj / complaints@lta.com.fj or calling the Call Centre on 3392166. Complaints can also be filed via the LTA live chat service on our website at https://www.lta.com.fj/
