Communities pay tribute to long-serving bus driver killed in accident

It was not only family members but also daily passengers of Akbar Buses and villagers in Rakiraki who lamented the death of bus driver Tulsi Ram.

Police confirmed that the 72-year-old driver from Naria, Rakiraki, passed away last Saturday morning following an accident at Nokonoko along Kings Road.

Mr Ram was carrying 10 passengers, all church members on their way to a rally in Suva.

Police said that at Nokonoko, the bus collided with another bus, and as a result of the impact, both vehicles veered off the road.

Several passengers were injured and taken to Rakiraki Hospital for treatment.

The bus driver later died at the hospital.

His nephew, Shivnil Ram, said the death of his uncle not only shocked the family but also the communities of Rakiraki.

“Our family is known just because of my uncle, who is well-known for driving Akbar Buses for more than 40 years,” said Shivnil Ram.

“I believe after he left school, he started driving, and his passion for being a bus driver carrying passengers continued until his death.

He was always recommended as a driver who was committed to his work and ensured the safety of his passengers.”

“It was a painful moment for us to accept that he is really gone,” he added.

Akbar Buses Company director, Fazeel Janif Akbar, described the loss as devastating for the company.

“I was in high school when he started driving for the company,” Mr Akbar said.
“He was the best and most professional driver.”

He described the late Mr Ram as energetic, active, and always punctual, working from 6am to 5pm daily.

“He was like a father to all of us, guiding us on what needed to be done in the bus company. We miss him,” Mr Akbar said.

Police are urging the public to work together to make roads safer for all users. Their investigation into the incident continues.

Feedback: mereleki.nai@fijisun.com.fj