Loud music an offence on Public Transport

Loud music an offence - Fiji Times Online: "Loud music an offence
Tuesday, February 07, 2006

PLAYING loud music in Public Service Vehicles is an offence and can result in serious penalties for drivers, the Land Transport Authority said yesterday.

LTA public relations officer, Veronica Malani said under regulation 46 of LTA's traffic regulations, taxis and buses found playing loud music were liable to pay a $25 fine.

'They can be issued with a Traffic Infringement Notice and any LTA officer has the authority to book them if they are found playing loud music in their vehicles,' Ms Malani said. She said playing loud music could be a contributing factor in road accidents and drivers needed to be cautious and more considerate of their passengers, and people and vehicles around them.

Fiji Bus Operators Association president, Pyara Singh said buses should not be playing loud music as drivers needed to be alert to hear signals from other vehicles and other warning signs.

'Music is good but it should not be played so loud that it becomes a nuisance. Drivers need to ensure their passengers are comfortable, happy and safe.' Mr Singh said people who had complaints regarding loud music in buses should lodge a complaint with the FBOA so the association could deal with bus owners.

Ms Malani encouraged the public to come forward and report such traffic offences to the LTA so appropriate action could be taken.

'Anyone who comes across this problem can report to our call centre through our toll free line on 0800 3342 886 while prepaid customers can text 582 and give information on the vehicle and incident.

Meanwhile, the Lomaloma road on the Labasa-Savusavu highway was partly open to light traffic yesterday while 15 roads in the Labasa and Seaqaqa areas remained closed to all traffic. Heavy rain during the weekend had also damaged some of the roads that were repaired by the Public Works Department last week.

Road engineer Fernando Amarapala said surveys were bein"