A $100 penalty for motorists illegally stopping or parking in bicycle lanes was raised in Parliament yesterday as Government outlined tougher enforcement measures along busy road corridors.
Opposition Member of Parliament Virendra Lal raised the issue, asking transport authorities to explain enforcement actions along Queen Elizabeth Drive, where bicycle lanes are frequently obstructed.
Transport Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau confirmed that penalties have been increased, and enforcement strengthened through the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and Fiji Police Force.
“The Ministry of Transport through LTA advises that strict compliance enforcement is actively maintained through a structured plan of regulatory controls, operational enforcement and collaboration with the Fiji Police Force,” he said.
He explained that offenders face infringement notices and increased fines.
“Disregard enforcement mechanisms include the issuance of traffic infringement notices, whereby penalties for illegal parking or stopping in prohibited areas have been revised and increased to $100, reflecting the seriousness of such contraventions.”
He further warned that obstruction of bicycle lanes could result in vehicle towing.
“Vehicles detecting obstructing traffic flow, particularly with designated clearways, bicycle lanes are subject to immediate towing and impartment with all associated costs fully borne by the registered owner of the offending vehicle.”
He said repeat or serious offences may lead to licence suspension or court proceedings. Mr Tuisawau also confirmed ongoing joint enforcement operations and daily monitoring along Queen Elizabeth Drive.
On concerns about heavy goods vehicles using the corridor, he said the issue is currently under assessment.
“Not only Queen Elizabeth Drive, but specific corridors, including at certain times, where heavy vehicles will be restricted.”
He said enforcement would continue as part of efforts to improve road safety and ensure bicycle lanes were used as intended.
