Opposition Member of Parliament Virendra Lal is urging the Ministry of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations to enhance the regulations governing amusement rides to ensure the safety of the public. His call for action follows a recent incident involving a Ferris wheel at the Wairiki Sevens, which raised serious concerns about ride safety.
Lal emphasized the critical need for authorities to take decisive action by banning unsafe amusement rides. He advocates for making safety a governmental priority through stringent enforcement of safety standards, advocating for regular inspections and maintenance of all rides to prevent further accidents.
“The safety of our people is paramount and should never be taken lightly. We must not experience any more tragic incidents. It is high time that authorities act responsibly by shutting down rides until they meet safety evaluations,” Lal stated.
The recent accident serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent dangers associated with outdated and poorly maintained amusement rides, although there were no fatalities this time. Lal pointed to a previous tragedy at the Fiji Showcase in 2023, which resulted in the death of a young woman, as evidence of critical failures in safety oversight.
In his capacity as the Shadow Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lal expressed alarm at the lack of effective monitoring by the Occupational Health and Safety department. He highlighted that a previous incident on August 1st posed serious risks to a child due to a malfunctioning ride.
He reiterated that children’s safety must never be sacrificed, criticizing current safety measures as inadequate and highlighting the age and condition of the rides. “We were fortunate that the most recent incident did not lead to a loss of life, unlike last year’s tragedy. This must serve as a wake-up call for all involved,” he concluded.
This article underscores the urgent need for improved safety standards and regulations in the amusement ride industry, emphasizing the importance of protecting public welfare. As discussions surrounding safety practices continue, there is potential for meaningful reform that could prevent future accidents and enhance the overall experience for families enjoying these attractions. There is a hopeful perspective that this tragic incident will lead to lasting changes that prioritize safety and well-being in amusement parks.
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