SUVA, Fiji (28th May 2025): The Ministry of Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport is reiterating the critical importance of public safety, particularly when operating public service vehicles, where the wellbeing of passengers must always remain a top priority.
This follows a bus incident that occurred Monday afternoon near Lekutulevu in Bulileka, where a bus driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle and veered off a bridge, resulting in injuries to seven passengers who were transported to Labasa Hospital for medical attention.
Initial police reports indicate that only one of the passengers, a student, sustained minor injuries and received treatment, while investigations into the incident continue.
Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport Honourable Ro Filipe Tuisawau strongly urged all drivers—especially those operating public service vehicles—to strictly observe posted speed limits and maintain proper control of their vehicles at all times.
“Adherence to these basic but vital road safety practices is essential in safeguarding lives and preventing avoidable accidents,” he said.
“The increasing frequency of road accidents involving buses, and public service vehicles, is concerning and immediate action will be taken via showcause proceedings will be taken to prevent further tragedies reckless driving behaviours. The safety of passengers and other road users must always be the highest priority.”
Hon. Tuisawau said public buses were the most commonly used mode of public transport in Fiji, and thousands of Fijians depend on them every day.
“This means that the expectations placed on our bus drivers are incredibly high. Every decision made behind the wheel carries serious consequences and must always be guided by responsibility and care,” the Hon. Minister said.
“Several contributing factors behind recent accidents, including speeding, inattention, and poor judgement of road and weather conditions. Reckless or distracted driving can result in devastating consequences, and such behaviour cannot be accepted.”
He said the rise in bus-related accidents was deeply troubling, and the Ministry, alongside the Land Transport Authority, was committed to working with all stakeholders to reverse this trend.
Hon. Tuisawau said strict adherence to traffic laws was non-negotiable and every public service vehicle driver and operator must uphold the highest safety standards while performing their duties.
“Through the LTA, we will continue to strengthen our focus and resources on driver licensing testing and issuance; increase road safety education and awareness and roadside enforcement; as well as vehicle inspections to counter the upsurge in road accidents and fatalities,” he said.
“Passenger safety must always be paramount. PSV drivers are required to ensure that all passengers are properly seated or have safely exited the vehicle before moving off. Picking up or dropping off passengers in unsafe areas — such as the middle of the road, at roundabouts, traffic lights, or on bridges — is strictly prohibited and endangers lives.”
Hon. Tuisawau said public service vehicles operated in service of the community, and with that came a serious responsibility to protect the people they transported.
“Our bus drivers carry more than passengers — they carry the hopes and expectations of every family who trusts them to bring their loved one’s home safely. That responsibility must never be taken lightly. Safety must come first, always,” he said.
“I urge every bus driver to take their duties seriously, for the sake of their passengers and the wider community.”