PSV driver a guardian of safety
JIOJI Kelo, a seasoned Public Service Vehicle (PSV) driver with over 25 years experience, is not just a man behind the wheel, he is a guardian of safety and comfort for those who entrust their lives to him.
Born and raised in the village of Wailevu West in Savusavu, the now 51-year-old's journey began as a carrier driver during his formative years.
However, it was in 1996, when he relocated to Suva, that his career in the transportation industry truly took off.
Upon arriving in Suva, Jioji Kelo initially entered the taxi-driving profession, gaining valuable insights into the nuances of urban traffic and the diverse needs of passengers.
This stint laid the foundation for his transition to becoming a bus driver, a role he has embraced with dedication for the past 15 years with Nasese Bus Ltd.
One of Jioji's fundamental principles is the paramount importance of transporting people safely.
In his own words, he says, "When passengers step onto my bus, their lives are in my hands. “Safety is not just a responsibility; it's a commitment that defines my journey as a driver."
This commitment is evident in every aspect of his work, from meticulous vehicle maintenance to adhering to traffic regulations. An integral part of Jioji's philosophy is the call for responsible driving. He firmly believes that speeding is not only a threat to the lives of passengers but also compromises the overall safety of the road. "Don't speed," he urges.
"It's not just about getting from point A to B quickly, it's about ensuring everyone arrives safely."
Jioji advocates for a culture of accountability among drivers, where passengers are empowered to speak up if they notice excessive speed or any unsafe practices.
Passenger comfort is equally crucial to Jioji Kelo.
He understands that a serene and pleasant journey contributes significantly to the overall well-being of those on board.
"Passengers have the right to call out to drivers if they are speeding or if the music is too loud," he affirms.
This openness to feedback ensures passengers feel empowered to voice their concerns, fostering a collaborative environment where safety and comfort are prioritised.
Loud music, a common concern in many public transport vehicles, is an issue Jioji takes seriously.
He believes that a peaceful atmosphere is essential for passengers, and excessive noise can create discomfort and anxiety. "It's important that passengers are not scared while traveling," he said, underscoring the need for drivers to strike a balance between creating a pleasant ambiance and focusing on the road.
He also elaborated that the transportation field is undergoing a significant shift, marked by a contrast between inexperienced, often careless, young drivers and the departure of seasoned, experienced drivers for overseas employment opportunities.
These changing dynamic poses challenges to road safety and the overall quality of public transportation services.
"Most of these young and new drivers do not really follow the regulations put out by the Land Transport Authority (LTA), and this causes a lot of accidents."
He says the influx of young and new drivers into the industry brings a wave of enthusiasm but often lacks the tempered experience crucial for navigating the complexities of modern traffic.
The result is a rise in careless driving habits that compromise the safety of both drivers and passengers, he shares.
Educational initiatives and mentorship programs could play a pivotal role in instilling a culture of responsibility among these emerging drivers, ensuring a smoother transition into the demanding field of transportation.
Simultaneously, the departure of older, more experienced drivers for overseas employment opportunities creates a void in the industry's knowledge base. These drivers, having weathered various road conditions and acquired a nuanced understanding of passenger needs, contribute significantly to the overall safety and efficiency of public transport.
The loss of such seasoned professionals underscores the importance of succession planning and efforts to retain experienced drivers within the local transportation sector.
To address these challenges, Jioji says a comprehensive approach is needed. Investing in training programs for new drivers that focus not only on technical skills but also on responsible and considerate driving behaviors can help bridge the experience gap.
Additionally, efforts to create a supportive environment for experienced drivers, possibly through incentives or recognition programs, may encourage them to stay and share their wealth of knowledge with the next generation.
As the transportation landscape continues to evolve, finding a balance between the vitality of youth and the wisdom of experience is crucial.
By fostering an environment that values both aspects, the industry can work towards ensuring safer roads and reliable public transportation services for everyone.
It’s not just about getting from point A to B quickly, it’s about ensuring everyone arrives safely
– Jioji Kelo