LAND Transport Authority Acting CEO Irimaia Rokowasa says the 72 lives lost to road accidents this year extends beyond mere statistics.
“They represent families shattered, dreams unfulfilled and futures stolen,” he said as the LTA and Fiji Police Force launched phase one of the Festive Season Awareness National Joint Operation code named ‘Solesolevaki IV’ this week.
Mr Rokosawa said the objective of the combined operation was to address the recent increase in road traffic accidents and to reduce the road carnage and fatalities on our roads through deterrent enforcement and No Drop Policy on high risk offences.
He said the goal was not just to enforce regulations or uphold road safety but to safeguard the lives that traverse our roads daily.
“We implore every individual on the road to take ownership of their actions. A single moment of distraction, a lapse in concentration, can have devastating consequences,” the Acting CEO said.
“It is heartbreaking to witness families torn apart by road accidents, especially during moments meant for happiness. Each life lost is a void that can never be filled, a future stolen too soon. We cannot let a moment of distraction or recklessness rob us of the joy of being with our loved ones.”
Reflecting on statistics from 2022 to date, Mr Rokosawa said the numbers presented a stark reality that
demanded urgent attention.
“In 2022, our nation mourned the loss of 44 lives due to road accidents. This year, the heartbreaking reality stands before us with 72 lives lost so far, a significant increase.
Mr Rokosawa said it was also crucial to acknowledge not just the numbers but the context they provided. In 2022, the fatality rate per 10,000 vehicles was 3.05. However, in 2023, the number has risen to 4.87.
“The stark increase serves as a distressing reminder of the challenges we face in ensuring the safety of our roads. These statistics are not mere figures. Each number signifies a profound tragedy that could have been prevented.”
