SUVA, Fiji (7th August 2025): With the highly anticipated Fiji Secondary Schools Deans Rugby Championship reaching its final stages, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) has activated a nationwide Joint Enforcement Operations Order to ensure road safety during the quarterfinals, semi-finals, and finals scheduled across the Western and Central Divisions.
With heightened movement of road users travelling to the Western Division for this weekend’s Deans quarterfinals, LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa is urging all road users to stay alert and follow road safety rules.
“Our students are the pride of our schools, our families, and our communities. It’s important that we all work together to ensure they reach their destinations safely and return home without incident,” Mr Rokosawa said.
“Everyone must take responsibility—whether you’re behind the wheel, a passenger, or a pedestrian. Our joint enforcement operations order with Police and municipal councils will targeting high-risk areas, including the Queens and Kings highways, bus stations, school zones, stadiums access roads, and entry points between the Central and Western divisions.
“Our enforcement officers will be conducting random vehicle inspections, checkpoint operations, and mobile patrols in areas where traffic will be heaviest. We are not only enforcing the law—we are actively educating the public to make better decisions on the road.”
As part of its awareness efforts, Mr Rokosawa said LTA’s road safety education booths near stadiums, rest stops, and checkpoints would also be set up to share road safety tips, speed limit reminders, and fatigue advice. Roadside leafleting during stop-checks to promote responsible behaviour would be carried out by the Authority’s road safety education teams.
“Our goal is to encourage drivers to reflect—not just about the penalties they could face when they choose to disregard road safety rules and traffic regulations, but think about the lives they carry and the consequences of one careless mistake,” Mr Rokosawa added.
He emphasised that speeding, drink driving, and engaging in driving distractions remain serious concerns, particularly during major public events such as sports competitions.
“The joint enforcement operations with police will focus on speed checks and random breathalyser tests throughout the weekend, especially at night. Seatbelt use will be strictly monitored and drivers caught using their phones will be penalised,” he warned.
“Vehicle compliance is another critical focus area. The officers will inspect tyres, brake lights, registrations, and other safety features, and any unroadworthy vehicle will be removed from service immediately.”
The CEO reminded PSV operators of their duty of care toward every passenger they transport. He also called on students and members of the public to conduct themselves respectfully while travelling, reminding them that irresponsible passenger behaviours in public transport can be dangerous.
“For PSV driver license holders, your responsibility is enormous. Please do not overload your vehicles. Keep music volumes low, drive within the speed limit, and make sure your passengers—especially students—remain seated at all times,” he said.
“To all students—we know you’re excited. But please don’t misbehave in moving vehicles. Your safety is far more important than the moment. Parents, guardians and supports alike, we encourage you to take an active role this weekend and throughout the Deans season to ensure yours and their safety while travelling.”
Mr Rokosawa assured the public that LTA officers would continue to monitor roads and key locations throughout the tournament to ensure public safety.
