Thirteen students were treated at Vunidawa Hospital after a vehicle accident in Navuniyasi, Naitasiri, yesterday morning. According to Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations Livai Driu, the driver of the carrier lost control, causing the vehicle to go off the road. This incident occurred as the students were en route to their annual examinations.
Although details remain limited, the police are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident, which also resulted in the death of a cow believed to have been involved. The Ministry of Education has yet to provide a statement, but the incident has raised significant concerns regarding the safety of schoolchildren, particularly those in rural areas and on maritime islands who rely on carriers for their daily commutes.
This incident is reminiscent of a similar accident that occurred in July, where a rural service license (RSL) carrier carrying 11 students from Adi Maopa Secondary School in Vanuabalavu lost control and fell down a hillside near Daliconi Village. In that instance, six students required medical treatment at Lomaloma Hospital.
The recent accidents highlight the urgent need for improved transportation safety measures for students, especially in rural regions where public transportation options can be limited. Authorities are encouraged to review transportation policies and implement regulations that prioritize the safety of young passengers.
While the situation is concerning, it presents an opportunity for stakeholders to advocate for stronger safety measures and ensure that children can travel to school safely. This proactive approach could foster a more secure environment for future generations.
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