The amusement ride incident at the kickoff of the 2024 Miss Hibiscus Festival has sparked serious concerns regarding the safety of public festivals. While the festival is a much-anticipated event that unites families and friends in celebration, the threat of danger arises when safety protocols are neglected.
The Miss Hibiscus Festival is a significant event in Fiji, characterized by delicious food, lively music, and social interactions. The enticing smells of popcorn, barbecues, and traditional iTaukei dishes fill the air, appealing to people of all ages and backgrounds.
After a five-year hiatus, the return of the Miss Hibiscus Festival 2024 should be a joyful occasion. However, this excitement should not be overshadowed by lapses in safety. The recent mishap serves as a crucial reminder of the necessity for stringent safety practices when operating amusement rides.
Many of these rides have been around for decades, often brought out of storage with minimal maintenance before being set up for public use. This practice is hazardous and can lead to fatal outcomes. Fiji has experienced its share of minor incidents at festivals over the years, but we cannot dismiss them as mere statistics. The tragic accident last June, which claimed the life of a 21-year-old woman and injured two others due to a Ferris wheel malfunction in Suva, underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures. In North America, over 1,197 amusement ride accidents were recorded in one year, despite millions enjoying these attractions. In Fiji, we must critically evaluate our preparedness to manage such emergencies.
Although the Hibiscus Festival represents a time of enjoyment, safety concerns must remain at the forefront. Festival-goers expect thrilling rides and the associated adrenaline, but they deserve a secure environment where parents need not worry that a fun day could become a distressing ordeal for their children. The assurances from the festival committee regarding ride inspections and certifications must be regarded with skepticism; comprehensive and transparent safety checks are essential, especially after any incident.
The Hibiscus Festival committee has made a commendable decision in halting the malfunctioning ride, but this should not be a temporary solution. The Ministry of Industrial Relations’ OHS Department must prioritize safety, ensuring operators are certified and medical personnel are present at all events. Establishing safety zones with soft ground rather than hard surfaces can significantly mitigate the risks tied to amusement rides, and an effective emergency response plan is crucial.
As the festival continues for the next four days, the primary focus should be on enjoyment. Visitors should relish good food, experiences, and create happy memories without fear of accidents or theft. Organizers need to maintain safety and security constantly, being proactive in implementing measures to restore public confidence.
Additionally, as we celebrate the Miss Hibiscus Festival 2024, we must remain conscientious about our environment. Efforts to beautify Suva should not be compromised by littering or vandalism. Keeping Suva clean is a shared responsibility.
Opetaia Ravai, the committee chairman, appropriately stated that the common objective is to foster positive and secure memories. Let us take this as a call to action and enjoy the Hibiscus Festival without compromising our safety.