Bus operators met with representatives from the Land Transport Authority yesterday to discuss issues facing the sector.

Discussions at the workshop centered around the enhancement of standards and regulations governing bus services in Fiji, and provided a platform for stakeholders to delve into the intricacies of Quality Assurance Maintenance System (QAMS) and Road Route Licence (RRL) requirements, compliance levels, and strategies for progressive growth for bus fleets.

Among the attendees were representatives and operators of bus companies from across Fiji.

LTA Board Chairman Inosi Kuridrani said the workshop provided an invaluable opportunity for stakeholders to exchange ideas, share best practices, and collectively address common concerns affecting the industry.

He said the forum’s priority was driving collective efforts to enhance standards and regulations governing bus services in Fiji.

“The review of the Road Route Licence and QAMS is not merely an administrative exercise; it is an opportunity for us to refine our practices, streamline our proceses, and ultimately elevate the quality of service we provide to the public,” he said.

“Every journey undertaken by our buses carries with it a profound responsibility – to safeguard the lives and wellbeing of our passengers, to mitigate environmental impact, and to contribute to the sustainable development of our nation.”

Mr Kuridrani said the active engagement in constructive dialogue and first-hand experiences of bus operators offered invaluable perspectives that would inform decision-making and shape the future of transportation in Fiji.

“The Authority is urging stakeholders to remain steadfast in their commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety and professionalism in the bus industry. The LTA will maintain its focus on the principles of accountability, transparency and service excellence,” he said.

LTA Acting Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa said stakeholders were given the opportunity to raise grievances and challenges directly with the LTA Board and Management Team.

“This open forum facilitated transparent communication and enabled the identification of actionable solutions to address pressing issues faced by the public bus industry as well as the travelling public,” Mr Rokosawa said.

“Participants also engaged in constructive dialogues on the maintenance and upkeep of facilities crucial to ensuring the safety and reliability of public transportation services.”

He said key topics discussed during the workshop included the provisions, renewals and amendments to the RRL guidelines, transfer of buses (borrowing of buses), offences under the LTA (PSV) Regulations 2000, bus passenger capacity, pertinent issues facing the industry, and proposed solutions to address these challenges.