Save the Children Fiji has urged authorities to enhance oversight and enforce regulations concerning school transport following the tragic death of a Year 9 student in an accident in Davota, Tavua. This unfortunate incident occurred when the student exited the bus to allow passengers to board and, while attempting to return to the bus, was struck.
Chief Executive Shairana Ali emphasized that the heartbreak of losing a young life underscores the vulnerability of children who depend on safe transport for their daily commute. She called for regular inspections of school buses and comprehensive driver training focused on child safety.
This plea for action comes in light of previous similar incidents that have highlighted the urgent need for better road safety protocols. For instance, just recently, another tragic accident involved a 14-year-old boy who lost his life under comparable circumstances, sparking significant public concern about the safety of students during transportation. The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has echoed these calls for increased vigilance among drivers and heightened awareness among the community regarding road safety practices.
Rokosawa, the LTA’s Chief Executive, stated that driver accountability is crucial, urging all Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators to adhere to safety regulations, refrain from stopping in unsafe locations, and ensure passengers are safely seated.
The loss of life in such incidents serves as a somber reminder of the pressing necessity to protect young road users. While the situation is tragic, there is hope that these calls for improved safety measures will resonate with the community and lead to a positive change in transport safety, ensuring that children can travel to school securely. Community involvement and advocacy for better safety regulations may ultimately help prevent further tragedies in the future.
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