SUVA, Fiji (23 April 2025): With heightened movement anticipated around the venue of the much-anticipated three-day 2025 Coca-Cola Games National Championships in Suva, which begins tomorrow, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is urging the public to prioritise safety on Fiji’s roads during this period of increased activity.
LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa acknowledged the significance of the annual sporting event, which draws thousands of students, families, and supporters from across the country.
“The Coca-Cola Games is one of the largest school sporting events in Fiji, and it holds immense importance for both participants and spectators,” Mr Rokosawa said.
“However, while we celebrate athletic excellence and school spirit, we must also remain vigilant and uphold road safety as a top priority.”
Mr Rokosawa called on all passengers—whether in private vehicles or public transport—to take an active role in ensuring their own safety and by reporting unsafe driving practices when they arise.
He also reminded drivers—especially those making long journeys from the Western and Northern Divisions—to plan their trips carefully, avoid speeding, and use designated rest areas to reduce fatigue-related risks.
“Drivers must remember that reaching the destination safely is more important than arriving quickly. Fatigue and speeding are major contributors to road accidents, and with increased travel during the Coca-Cola Games, the margin for error is even smaller,” Mr Rokosawa cautioned.
“We are urging motorists to follow all road safety laws, observe speed limits, and be mindful of pedestrians, especially in busy urban centres and near the games venue.”
Mr Rokosawa said LTA’s road safety education teams were actively conducting road safety awareness programs across schools and camps to promote responsible passenger conduct, particularly on public service vehicles.
“Additionally, PSV drivers are urged to report any incidents of unruly passenger behaviour at designated police checkpoints or nearby police stations. Students and supporters are strongly reminded to avoid unsafe actions while on board PSVs or private vehicles.
“Behaviours such as waving of school flags from moving vehicles or rocking the vehicle are considered hazardous and pose significant risks to passenger safety and public wellbeing,” the CEO said.
He said joint enforcement teams were also intensifying surveillance efforts to monitor the movements of students, supporters, and the general public, ensuring full compliance with traffic laws and road safety measures.
“We encourage passengers to break the culture of silence and speak up against reckless driving. Whether it’s speeding, disobeying traffic laws, or engaging in dangerous manoeuvres, it is critical that passengers voice their concerns when they feel their safety is compromised,” he said.
He says members of the public who witness dangerous driving behaviours—regardless of which part of the country they are travelling from—are encouraged to report incidents directly to LTA officers.
The Authority is also appealing to parents, guardians, and senior citizens to take a proactive stance in promoting responsible behaviour on public transport, particularly among student passengers and school supporters.
Members of the public can also report instances of reckless driving by texting to 582 or emailing complaints@lta.com.fj and help@lta.com.fj. Details should also include vehicle registration, time and location of the incident. These proactive actions can play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of Fijian road users and preventing potential accidents caused by speeding and irresponsible driving habits.
