The Police Traffic Division Unit around the country are gearing up for the festive season joint operation.

This is in light of the increasing number of road fatalities and accidents on our roads.

More than 15 divisional traffic officers gathered in Suva today to plan their strategies and reduce road accidents.

Director Traffic SSP Mahesh Mishra says 55 lives have already been lost on our roads and there is a need to reduce this.

SSP Mishra says with November to January considered as festive period, they anticipate an increase in movement during this time.

“We had 65 deaths last year compared to 55 deaths this year. Every death is a concern to the Fiji Police Force. Every road fatality is a concern to the Fiji Police Force and again we are looking forward to the support of the communities.”

Meanwhile, speeding remains a major concern as 19 fatalities occurred as a result of speeding, followed by dangerous and careless driving.