Land Transport Authority and Police team up to make roads safer

In a serious bid to reduce accidents, reckless driving and road fatalities the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and Fiji Police Force launched a joint operation initiative.

Personnel from LTA and Police will be on watch along Fiji’s busiest roads to enhance road safety and create awareness as the country approaches the festive and Christmas season.

Officially launched at a signing ceremony in Valelevu, Nasinu, last week, the initiative brings together law enforcement and regulatory powers to tackle high-risk driving behaviors head-on.

Acting Assistant Commissioner of Police (A/ACP) Operations Kasiano Vusonilawe and LTA chief operating officer Imran Ali led the endorsement. 

Mr Ali said the festive season would see more vehicles on the road because of holiday travel, social gatherings and end-of-year events, which often leads to dangerous driving. 

“This operation ensures that drivers cannot exploit gaps between jurisdictions. Non-compliant road users will face both regulatory and criminal consequences. Our goal is simple, to protect lives,” he said. 

The campaign will target speeding, overloading, careless and impaired driving, using measures such as traffic enforcement, speed monitoring, overloading checks, e-ticketing compliance, and community awareness programmes. 

A/ACP Vusonilawe said road safety was always a shared responsibility. “We are urging drivers, passengers, and pedestrians to do their part. Speak up if your driver is taking risks. Slow down, don’t drink and drive, and always stay alert,” he said. 

Both agencies said the operation was more than penalties, it’s about changing behavior and creating a culture of responsibility that extends beyond the festive season. Patrols will be intensified on busy roads and blackspot areas, combining LTA and police presence for maximum visibility and deterrence. 

“The success of this operation depends on the public. Following traffic rules, being patient and protecting vulnerable road users can save lives,” Mr Ali said.  

The joint campaign aims to ensure that more Fijians reach home safely and that Fiji’s roads remain safer for everyone this holiday season.