Rakiraki bus driver’s death leaves family in shock

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

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

The accident

The bus driver, Tulsi Ram, was carrying 10 passengers who were 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 buses veered off the road. 

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

The bus driver later died at Rakiraki Hospital. 

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

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

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

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

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

The Akbar Buses Company director, Fazeel Janif Akbar, said it was a devastating moment for the company as they had lost a committed and faithful driver.

“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 late Mr Ram as energetic, active and always on time for work from 6am to 5pm.

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

Police are urging the public to continue to work together to make our roads safe for all road users. 

Their investigation into the incident continues.