12th July, 2019 TONGAN As part of the Ministry of Infrastructure’s Road Safety Works under the Land Transport Division, installing of road traffic signs and road line markings are some of their core functions for the safety of road users.
Earlier this year, the Tongan owned Signal and Lighting Co. of Florida, USA (Billy Masila, B&E Signal and Lighting Inc.) offered the Acting Prime Minister, Hon. Semisi Kioa Lafu Sika, the opportunity to run a pilot project – the Masila Ma’a Tonga Project – for the safety of road users. This includes installation of 2 pedestrian crossing signal alerts (push button solar powered), 2 flash stop signs and 2 warning school zone flashing beacons and all these signs operates through solar power panel.
Correspondences were made between the Ministy and B&E Co and on the 3rd of July, 2019 flashing pedestrian crossing alerts were installed at the St. George to BSP Bank crossing which was officially opened by the Hon. Semisi Kioa Lafu Sika, Minister for Tourism and Infrastructure, Deputy Prime Minister. The other signs are yet to be installed once locations are confirmed.
The Ministry appreciates the kind assistance from Signal and Lighting Co. and hopes that the public will use them appropriately. The Ministry is moving forward to develop a better understanding of the importance of road safety through these upgrades and not only that but a few amendments on the current road act should be in place so it will be in line with the Ministry’s vision.
So far, we have received a few positive comments on this road sign, “Finally we have an upgrade for better road safety, especially for pedestrians,” a civil servant said.
The Ministry is grateful for this joint initiative with B&E Co. and looks forward to installing more signs like these in the future for the safety of all road users.
ENDS
Issued by the: Ministry of Infrastructure