Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has announced a temporary halt on Ferris wheel operations until further notice, following an incident involving a 12-seater Ferris wheel at the Wairiki Sevens tournament in Taveuni. This decision comes amidst a thorough investigation being conducted by the National Occupational Health and Safety Service (NOHSS) under the Employment Ministry.
The halt was reached after extensive discussions between the Employment Ministry, the Office of the Prime Minister, and other stakeholders. Reports indicate that patrons had to rely on the assistance of operators and bystanders to safely disembark from the Ferris wheel due to a malfunction, although thankfully, no injuries or fatalities were reported.
The ministry has committed to a comprehensive investigation to uncover the circumstances that led to the malfunction and will provide a detailed report on its findings. In the interim, NOHSS has issued a prohibition notice to prevent any further operation of similar rides.
In light of this incident, Opposition MP Virendra Lal has advocated for more robust regulations governing Ferris wheel operators, highlighting that this is not an isolated event, as similar incidents have occurred over the past two years. He has urged for stricter legislation to help prevent such occurrences in the future.
This proactive approach from the government and concerned officials aims to enhance the safety of amusement rides and ensure the well-being of patrons in the future. It reflects a commitment to public safety, which is encouraging for families planning to enjoy these attractions in the future.
Overall, while incidents like this are concerning, the swift response from authorities demonstrates a dedication to improving safety standards and reducing future risks. The ongoing investigation may lead to important changes that could ultimately make amusement parks a safer environment for everyone.
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