Around 50 bus passengers faced an unusual challenge when their bus veered off course and ended up in a drain in Tovata, Nasinu, near Suva. The incident took place around 11 am, when the driver lost control after hitting a pothole, leading the bus to slide into the drain. Passengers were left with no choice but to walk approximately two kilometers to reach the main road at Laqere, from where they could catch alternative transportation into Suva.
A spokesperson for City Transport attributed the accident to the poor condition of the roadway. They voiced serious concerns about safety, stating that without upgrades, future accidents could potentially lead to loss of life. The spokesperson highlighted that the company had repeatedly raised complaints with the Public Works Department regarding the deteriorating road conditions, but little progress had been made. They emphasized the urgent need for improvements, especially given the road’s treacherous nature during rainy weather.
Despite the incident, City Transport remains committed to providing their services but continues to advocate for necessary road upgrades to enhance passenger safety.
This event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining public infrastructure to ensure the safety of commuters. It also illustrates the collective responsibility of local authorities to address infrastructure issues proactively, potentially preventing future incidents.
In summary, while the situation was unfortunate, it emphasizes the vital need for infrastructure improvements to safeguard passenger well-being and enhance public transport safety in the region.
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