16 road deaths for year, 16 too many [1]
Friday, December 16, 2016 - 18:32
With 16 road deaths recorded in Tonga so far this year, a Road Safety Campaign was launched by Crown Prince Tupouto'a 'Ulukalala on 13 December aimed to reduce road accidents and deaths.
Acting Chief Superintendent Tevita Vailea said this year is not over yet but Tonga has 16 deaths, compared to eight road deaths in 2015.
The campaign by the Land Transport Division at the Ministry of Infrastructure presented advertisements as part of the campaign to be aired on TV running alongside text messages, radio ads and programs, at the event at Digi Square.
Tevita Lavemai, Head of the Land Transport Division (Ltd) said road safety will be the main goal for the next five years (2017-21) with three key activities from road safety to safe vehicles and safety for road users.
This would be in line with a renewed regional road safety goals, targets and indicators for Asia and the Pacific 2011-20.
“The strong message is that there is only one life, “Koe mo'ui ‘oku taha pe,” reflects the absolute seriousness of the situation in Tonga and that road accident is a matter of life and death."
The division is also conducting an outreach program, which has started in Nukunuku.
Police Commissioner Stephen Caldwell thanked the Ministry for their efforts and strong messages as this boost their efforts in ensuring road safety.
The Road Safety campaign is funded by the Transport Sector Consolidation Program under Ltd., in response to the growing concern for road safety and was launched to warn road users especially during this festive season.
Popular 88.6FM DJ Ramanlal Vallabh also urged people to enjoy the holidays safely after sharing a personal tragedy when he lost his beloved sister due to an accident caused by drink driving.
A road rules competition will be also be held at Digi Square on Wednesday, December 21 aimed at young children and youth.