The revelation that random checks will be conducted on Public Service Vehicles (PSV) drivers as part of a wider mission to crackdown on drugs is encouraging and also a concern.
It raises the question of how involved are they in the sale of illicit drugs for starters.
Land Transport Authority chief executive officer Irimaia Rokosawa yesterday told a public consultation on “the review of the taxi permit and process” in Lautoka that the drug problem in Fiji has become a big issue.
Random checks, he said, were the best option because offenders were caught off guard.
He spoke about information given by the intelligence services both in the Philippines and the Fiji Police Force about PSV boats being used in the drug trade.
PSV drivers, he revealed, have reportedly been heavily involved, and are also takers or users of drugs, for example methamphetamine, which keeps them awake for days.
He is pushing for random checks, which he said was similar to breathalyser tests on our roads.
“If people want to come and drive, bring in their medical tests, the latest one that confirms that the person is not a drug user,” he warned.
Random checks would be also done for licence renewal.
In keeping with what Mr Rokosawa has raised, it is good to know that drug use and trafficking will not be tolerated within the PSV community.
There can be no doubt about the fact that drug use among drivers, and any allegations of trafficking is serious and places the lives of passengers at risk, if it is happening!
With so much talk on right now about taxidrivers, especially about the service they provide, or don’t provide, the last thing we want to hear is this allegation about potential drug use, and sale of illicit substances on taxis.
We look up to the taxi unions for instance, to ensure there are standards that meet the expectations of public service vehicle users, and they are promoting safety among their members.
We look to them to promote a drug-free environment, and to advocate the fight against illicit drugs!
There will always be challenges.
The key though is for PSV drivers to provide good and safe service.
People expect them to be safe and reliable, and meeting their expectations.
This is why it is important that all stops are pulled to ensure we are above this latest round of revelations, and appropriately dealing with the major challenges.
We say there must be tough measures in place to deal with this, and ensure we have safety as a prominent part of the provision of public service by drivers and owners of vehicles!
