A suspension has been placed on all ferris wheel operations until further notice to prioritize public safety. The decision was announced by Agni Deo Singh, the Minister for Employment, Productivity, and the Workplace, following in-depth discussions with senior ministry officials.

This announcement comes on the heels of a concerning incident that occurred during the Wairiki Sevens event in Taveuni last Wednesday, where a ferris wheel experienced a mechanical failure while patrons were onboard. Reports indicate that a video circulating on social media captured alarming footage of smoke billowing from the engine, and concerned onlookers intervened to manually stop the machine, allowing the riders to disembark safely.

In response to the incident, Minister Singh confirmed that his team from the Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) unit conducted an inspection of the malfunctioning ride. He has also ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the mechanical failure, emphasizing that a preliminary report will provide insights into how the engine malfunctioned.

Minister Singh pointed out that many such incidents are linked to amusement ride operators using outdated and poorly maintained equipment. This incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of stringent safety standards in public amusement facilities.

To ensure the continued safety of the public, the investigation will be closely monitored, and it is hoped that necessary measures will be put in place to prevent future occurrences. This ongoing commitment to safety reflects a proactive stance in protecting the enjoyment and well-being of all patrons at amusement events.

As communities call for enhanced oversight of amusement rides, this incident may catalyze improvements in safety regulations.