LTA LAUDS FIJI TAXI ASSOCIATION CALL FOR CAMERAS IN TAXIS

The Land Transport Authority (LTA) Acting Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa  acknowledged the steps taken by the Fiji Taxi Association (FTA) in considering the installation of cameras within taxis as a measure to enhance the safety of both drivers and passengers. 

He said the LTA recognized the crucial role technology played in promoting security and accountability within the transportation sector. 

"In alignment with our shared commitment to road safety, the LTA is willing to engage in a collaborative effort with the Fiji Taxi Association to ensure that the installation and utilisation of these cameras align with industry standards and best practices. This includes device compatibility and compliance with requirements for any electrical modification that may be needed. One of the core functions of the Land Transport Authority is safety," he said.

He said this great task was not limited to drivers' safety but safety for all Fijians and road users. 

"For LTA to implement safety strategies, it is crucial that our major partners such as the Fiji Police Force, public services vehicle users and the general public advocate on the need to protect every user and provider of public transport services, It is also crucial to note that safety is everyone's responsibility. The Authority is engaging in public awareness, talanoa sessions and other mediums to ensure that the Fijian public is aware of the need to keep everyone safe including taxi drivers/PSV  (Public Service Vehicle) license holders," he said.

 Members of the community are also encouraged to speak up and report any illegal activities and make use of the LTA free texting platform (582) to raise these issues.

The FTA's call  for the installation of cameras in taxis following the alleged murder of Ba taxi driver Donal Sarwan Prasad, whose body was found in Qalitu, Lautoka a fortnight ago.

 Mr Prasad was last seen on December 1 when he left his home at Varavu, Ba, to pick a passenger in Qalitu, however his body was discovered a day later at the same location while his taxi was left abandoned near the Anupam Theatre.

 FTA general secretary Ashwin Lal said the installation of cameras would ensure the safety of drivers at all times. It would also discourage illegal activities from happening in the car. 

“This is a serious issue that we want to address to ensure the safety of our drivers,” he said. 

"We really want to put cameras in all taxis and this must be compulsory and it will operate 24/7, so if any illegal activity is done in the taxi or if any driver is attacked, they will be filmed.” he said. 

“I am not aware of the number of drivers who have been arrested because of illegal activities, but we want to meet with the Minister for Transport, LTA and the Commissioner of Police to discuss all these issues. The association has informed Police that if any illegal activities happen in taxis, they are not tied to the association, therefore the driver must be charged because it is the law.”

 Lautoka taxi driver Susheel Salveen Raj said this would guarantee the safety of taxi drivers.

“I have been driving for 13 years and it is a good idea because at least it is taking our safety and welfare into account, especially when we drive at night or to dangerous areas,” he said.

 Divisional Police Commander West Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Iakobo Vaisewa said the rights of passengers needed to also be considered. “It is a good idea, but we have to consider the other rights of the passengers. We need to seek legal advice on that aspect. It is good to discuss issues like that for the safety of not only the drivers, but for the passengers as well,” he said

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