The Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Fiji Police Force have officially launched a joint road safety operation aimed at reducing road-related incidents by targeting high-risk driver behaviours during the busy festive season.
Manager Road Safety Education at the LTA, Watilala Fonu says the operation begins today and will run until January 31st.
Fonu says that, according to current police data, the top five traffic offences being targeted under this operation include over-speeding, drunk driving, dangerous overtaking, driver fatigue, and pedestrian negligence.
She says that as part of the operation, both LTA officers and police will be issuing on-the-spot fines for offences, while in more serious cases, such as accidents resulting in serious injury or death, drivers may be referred to the LTA’s Show Cause Programme.
She adds that this programme requires drivers to appear before a committee and justify why they should retain their licence, and depending on the number and severity of violations, drivers may be issued a warning, or in serious cases, have their licences suspended.
Fonu says pedestrians and passengers will also be monitored under the campaign, particularly in light of the recent spike in pedestrian fatalities, including cases involving drunk pedestrians.
With the festive season approaching, she reminded drivers and road users that traffic rules are in place to protect everyone, stressing the importance of driving responsibly.
She says the LTA and Police will maintain a visible presence on major roads across the country over the next four months, with more roadside checks, mobile enforcement, and awareness campaigns to support the operation.
She adds that members of the public are encouraged to report unsafe road behaviour and support the goal of a safer, more responsible road culture in Fiji.
