In a recent article (Ron Singh, FT 23/03, P36), concerns were raised about the state of vehicle inspection standards in Fiji, citing an alleged absence of standards and highlighting the dangers posed by unroadworthy vehicles.
As the Land Transport Authority (LTA), we would like to provide clarity on this matter and reaffirm our commitment to ensuring road safety.
Contrary to claims of an absence of standards, vehicle inspection requirements and standards in Fiji are regulated through the Land Transport Authority (Vehicle Registration and Construction) Regulations.
These regulations establish the baseline for the standards that vehicles must meet to be considered roadworthy which are further enhanced by comprehensive standard codes of practices and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Furthermore, LTA’s authorised inspection agencies also utilise a range of inspection equipment during roadworthiness inspections.
These tools ensure that vehicles are thoroughly inspected, covering critical components such as brakes, tires, lights, and other safety features.
Any vehicle found to be non-compliant is required to undergo necessary repairs before being deemed roadworthy.
Safety is paramount for LTA, and there is no compromise on this aspect. We understand the importance of maintaining high standards of vehicle inspection to ensure the safety of all road users.
Our dedicated team of inspectors and staff work diligently to enforce these standards and uphold road safety across Fiji.
While we acknowledge that there may be isolated cases of non-compliance and lack of transparency, these should not be generalised to represent the overall state of vehicle inspection standards in Fiji.
LTA is committed to addressing any such issues promptly and effectively, ensuring that all vehicles on the road meet the required safety standards.
This extends to LTA’s authorised motor vehicle inspection agencies (AMVIA).
To ensure compliance of safety standards during the vehicle inspection process, the Authority’s Standards and Engineering department conducts periodic assessment of Vehicle Test Result Sheet (VTRS), processes new and renewal Vehicle Inspectors Permit (VIP) applications and AMVIA quarterly audits.
The Japan Export Vehicle Inspection Center (JEVIC) is also an accredited pre-shipment vehicle inspection agency operating under ISO/IEC 17020 standards.
It provides a range of inspections for used vehicles imported from Japan, Australia, and New Zealand to Fiji, contracted by the LTA to ensure the highest standards of vehicle inspection.
JEVIC’s services encompass structural, undercarriage, odometer verification, stolen vehicle checks, emissions tests, and more, ensuring compliance with roadworthiness and safety standards. Maintaining high vehicle inspection standards through JEVIC offers numerous benefits to vehicle importers and buyers in Fiji.
It guarantees safer roads by ensuring vehicles meet structural compliance, prevents odometer tampering, and promotes quality investments.
Additionally, it addresses emission and radiation concerns, reduces hassles associated with substandard vehicles, and provides detailed appraisal reports for informed purchasing decisions, ultimately curbing confidence fraud.
Identifying JEVIC-inspected vehicles is facilitated by inspection stickers on windshields and electronic appraisal reports issued to importers.
Buyers can request these reports from dealers to verify vehicle conditions and rectify any defects before purchase.
Refusal by dealers to provide JEVIC reports can be reported to the Land Transport Authority for resolution.
Authorized motor vehicle dealerships benefit significantly from JEVIC inspections as it assures the value of vehicles acquired, enhances marketability, and improves dealer reputation by reducing customer complaints and issues arising from substandard vehicles.
JEVIC operates in various locations across Japan, New Zealand, and Australia, including Yokohama, Auckland, and Brisbane, providing a comprehensive inspection network for vehicles exported to Fiji.
In essence, JEVIC’s rigorous inspection services uphold safety, quality, and transparency in the vehicle importation process, benefiting both consumers and dealerships while contributing to safer roads and reliable investments in Fiji’s automotive industry.
In light of the concerns raised by Mr Singh (FT 23/03), the Authority remains committed to continuously improving the vehicle inspection process.
We welcome feedback and suggestions from the public and stakeholders to further enhance our standards and practices. Together, we can ensure that Fiji’s roads are safe for all.
In conclusion, LTA reaffirms its commitment to ensuring road safety through stringent vehicle inspection standards.
We urge all vehicle owners to comply with these standards and help us in our mission to make Fiji’s roads safer for everyone.
For more information or to report any concerns regarding vehicle inspection standards, please contact the Land Transport Authority on 3392166 or email help@lta.com.fj.
• IRIMAIA ROKOSAWA is the Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Land Transport Authority. Views expressed are those of the author and not necessarily that of this newspaper. Email: official@lta.com.fj for feedback/comments.
