The recent accident at the start of the 2024 Miss Hibiscus Festival has raised serious concerns regarding the safety protocols at public festivals.
The festival, a cherished event in Fiji, brings families and friends together to enjoy delicious food, lively music, and social interactions. The delightful scents of popcorn, barbecues, and a variety of dishes, particularly iTaukei cuisine, waft through the air, appealing to people of all ages and backgrounds.
This year marks the return of the Miss Hibiscus Festival after a five-year hiatus, a joyful occasion that should not be marred by safety issues. The incident on Sunday highlights the critical need for amusement rides to adhere to all safety regulations.
Many of these ride attractions have been operational for decades. They are often reintroduced with minimal maintenance, posing serious risks. Safety is paramount, especially considering past minor accidents during festivals in Fiji. A tragic incident last June, where a 21-year-old woman lost her life and two others sustained serious injuries due to a Ferris wheel malfunction in Suva, underlines the urgency for improved safety standards. In North America, with numerous visitors, over 1,197 amusement ride accidents occurred in a single year. Fiji must reflect on its readiness to manage such emergencies.
While the Hibiscus Festival is a time for enjoyment and family togetherness, safety must be prioritized. Visitors seek thrilling rides and should feel secure while doing so. Parents should not be concerned that a fun-filled day might turn into a distressing ordeal for their children. The festival committee’s claims of certified and checked rides should be rigorously validated through comprehensive safety inspections, especially in the aftermath of any incidents.
The committee was right to stop the malfunctioning ride, yet this response should not be a temporary solution. The Ministry of Industrial Relations’ OHS Department needs to ensure that only certified operators run the rides and that medical personnel are present at all events. Establishing safety zones with softer ground instead of hard surfaces can significantly lower the dangers associated with these attractions. Having an effective emergency response plan is also crucial.
As the festival continues over the next four days, the focus should be on providing a joyful experience free of the fear of injury or theft. Organizers must uphold safety and security consistently, proactively implementing measures that will rebuild public trust.
Additionally, while enjoying the Miss Hibiscus Festival 2024, it is important to respect our environment. Ongoing beautification efforts in Suva should not be compromised by littering or vandalism. Keeping Suva clean is everyone’s responsibility.
Opetaia Ravai, the committee chairman, emphasized the collective aim of creating positive and safe experiences. This incident serves as a wake-up call, reminding us to enjoy the Hibiscus Festival while safeguarding our well-being.