Evening bus services in Labasa are set to be suspended on two important routes due to a series of alarming stoning incidents that have left drivers feeling unsafe. Operators cite a lack of police action in response to reported assaults as a primary factor in their decision.
Dalip Chand and Son Pte Limited’s managing director, Rohinil Chand, has reported multiple stoning attacks occurring as recently as last week, with the most recent incident targeting a driver on the Savusavutaga route. This has raised significant concerns for safety, prompting the company to decide on halting their evening bus services after 5:30pm until improvements in security can be guaranteed.
The decision is expected to heavily impact working families, many of whom rely on affordable evening transportation to reach home after work or market stalls. Without these services, commuters may face increased costs for alternative transport or unavoidably long walks, posing further challenges for vulnerable community members.
Similar incidents have also been reported by Parmod Enterprises Pte Limited, indicating a troubling trend of violence against public transport vehicles. Director Parmod Chand mentioned that one of his parked buses was recently damaged, exacerbating concerns about the overall safety of transportation services in the area.
In response to the growing issue, police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) is investigating the complaints filed by Dalip Chand and Son Pte Limited, emphasizing the establishment of a task force to look into these cases more closely.
Highlighting a broader issue, community leaders, including the Fiji Bus Operators Association, have pointed to the necessity of collaborative efforts from law enforcement and community members to foster a safer environment for public transport users. The hope remains that heightened awareness and cooperative action could lead to a marked decrease in violence and vandalism, creating a more secure atmosphere for everyone who relies on these vital services.
Overall, while the incidents prompt significant concerns, there exists an opportunity for local authorities and residents to come together to promote safety and restore trust in public transportation services.
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