Suva, Fiji: The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is urging bus operators, drivers, teachers, parents and guardians to make bus safety a top priority to protect children travelling to and from school each day.
This reminder follows a recent incident in Vatuyaka, Ba, where a school bus was stranded in fast-flowing floodwaters after heavy rain.
While all passengers were safely evacuated and no injuries were reported, LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa said any PSV operator or driver placing public safety at risk would be dealt with accordingly as this was unacceptable behaviour.
In a separate incident, Mr Rokosawa said the Authority issued a Traffic Infringement Notice and warning to a bus driver seen on a video shared on social media transporting an overloaded bus with students sitting on the ledge of the open windows.
Mr Rokosawa said school bus safety must remain a priority across all routes and communities.
“Buses are not just vehicles; they carry our most precious cargo — our children. Their safety must never be compromised under any circumstances,” Mr Rokosawa said.
He said public service vehicles transporting school children carry significant responsibility and must exercise the highest level of professionalism and care at all times, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
“Drivers must understand that they are transporting young lives. Therefore, speeding, careless driving, attempting to cross flooded roads, dangerous overtaking or overloading are unacceptable. Safety standards are mandatory,” he said.
Mr Rokosawa highlighted that overcrowding remains a serious concern, particularly during peak morning and afternoon hours when demand for transport is high.
“Overcrowding places unnecessary risk on students and makes it difficult to maintain order inside the bus. Bus operators must ensure that vehicles operate strictly within their approved passenger capacity at all times. No child should be forced to travel in unsafe conditions due to overloading.”
He further stressed the importance of discipline and safe conduct while on board.
“Students must refrain from sitting on bus windows, standing on the steps of a moving bus, or positioning themselves near open doorways. Such behaviour is extremely dangerous and exposes them to serious injury,” Mr Rokosawa said.
“We are strongly advising students not to put their heads, hands or any part of their bodies outside the bus windows. What may seem harmless or playful can result in tragic consequences in a split second.”
Mr Rokosawa said drivers must take immediate action if students are found engaging in unsafe behaviour.
“Drivers are responsible for ensuring that students are seated safely before the bus moves. Buses must not depart if students are standing on steps, blocking exits or travelling in unsafe positions. Maintaining order inside the vehicle is part of the driver’s duty of care.”
He also emphasised the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and compliance with licensing requirements.
“All buses transporting school children must undergo routine inspections to ensure brakes, tyres, lights, mirrors and emergency exits are in proper working condition. Compliance with roadworthiness standards and valid licensing is compulsory and non-negotiable,” he said.
“The Authority will continue carrying out targeted inspections and random spot checks on school bus operations nationwide. Operators found breaching safety regulations will face strict enforcement action, including fines, suspension or cancellation of licences.”
Mr Rokosawa called on parents, guardians and school management to reinforce bus safety awareness among students, especially during the rainy season.
“Parents and teachers must consistently remind children about appropriate behaviour while travelling. Safety education must extend beyond the classroom and into everyday routines such as commuting to and from school.”
He also encouraged the public to report any unsafe bus operations through LTA's complaints platform by texting to 582 or emailing help@lta.com.fj.
“We urge members of the public to report cases of speeding, reckless driving, overloading, attempts to cross flooded roads or unsafe student conduct. Public vigilance plays a key role in preventing accidents and protecting our children.”
Mr Rokosawa reiterated that safeguarding students remains a collective responsibility.
“Every stakeholder has a role to play. When drivers act responsibly, operators comply with regulations, schools reinforce discipline and parents guide their children, we create a safer transport environment for everyone," he said.
The CEO said joint enforcement operations between LTA and Fiji Police were ongoing with focus on PSV compliance to road safety measures and traffic regulations.