Call for Tougher Penalties: A Community’s Stand Against Vandalism on Public Transport

Narayan Reddy, president of the Lautoka Residents and Ratepayers Association, has issued a strong call for tougher penalties against individuals who engage in stoning public transport vehicles. This plea follows an incident earlier this week where a bus operated by Classic Buses Limited was attacked in Lautoka, fortunately resulting in no injuries to the driver despite some broken glass.

Adnan Mohammed, director of Classic Buses Limited, assured that the bus service will persist but noted that the company plans to introduce more safety measures to protect passengers and drivers alike. Reddy stressed the grave nature of such attacks, pointing out that they put everyone at risk, including passengers and the bus operators. He suggested that these incidents are often the result of intoxicated individuals or youth who may not grasp the consequences of their actions.

A reference to past incidents reveals that attacks on buses, particularly in the Natabua area, are not uncommon. Reddy highlighted the recurrence of such offenses over the years without any serious injuries being reported.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed the latest incident, stating that investigations are currently in progress. Inquiries made to the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Fiji Bus Operators Association have yet to yield responses, including outreach to Transport and Public Works Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau.

This situation underscores the pressing issues regarding public safety related to both enforcement and public transportation systems. Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu’s previous warnings about violence against police vehicles align with Reddy’s call for enhanced safety measures, highlighting the importance of community involvement in preventing vandalism.

In a positive light, the current circumstances present an opportunity for increased community awareness and engagement. By working together, local residents can significantly contribute to creating a safer environment on public transport, ultimately fostering a more secure and respectful community for all.