The first two rows of seats on buses must be reserved for persons with disabilities, as mandated under the Land Transport (Public Service Vehicle) Regulations 2000.
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) is calling on public service vehicle (PSV) operators to comply with this priority seating regulation, which also applies to minibuses and carriers, to ensure accessible transport for persons with disabilities and senior citizens across Fiji.
Regulation 20A of the same act also requires that minibuses and carrier drivers allocate the seats closest to them for the same reason.
LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa also highlighted that PSV drivers and vehicle owners are responsible for assisting persons with disabilities when boarding and disembarking.
“Drivers and vehicle owners must take reasonable steps to assist persons with physical disabilities. These provisions are essential for ensuring that public service vehicles are accessible to all.
The regulation also requires PSVs to be equipped with modifications such as ramps or handrails to facilitate easy access for passengers with disabilities. Vehicles must also provide sufficient space for mobility aids such as wheelchairs and walking frames.
Rokosawa also pointed out the need for visible signage indicating priority seating.
“Vehicle owners are mandated to prominently display permanent signage as close as practicable to the relevant seats, ensuring that all passengers are aware of the priority seating arrangements,” he said. “This signage is also extended to senior citizens, as they too are entitled to priority for seating when travelling on public service vehicles.”
The LTA is ramping up efforts to monitor compliance with the priority seating regulations. It will also continue its public awareness campaigns to ensure that persons with disabilities and senior citizens are treated with respect.
