Concerns regarding unruly behavior by students on buses have prompted a significant response from bus operators and the Land Transport Authority (LTA) in Fiji, especially with the Fiji secondary schools athletics finals approaching. Recent incidents, including students seen misbehaving on buses—such as hanging out of windows and brandishing flags—have intensified apprehensions about student safety during transportation.
Richard Lal, president of the Fiji Bus Operators Association (FBOA), emphasized that bus drivers should not be held accountable for the behavior of students while using public transport. Instead, he called for schools and parents to take on the responsibility of instilling discipline. In light of ongoing issues, drivers have been instructed to park their buses or drive to the nearest police station if they encounter disruptive behavior.
The LTA plans to bolster its road presence during athletics events to monitor and regulate activities on public transportation. LTA media liaison officer Geraldine Panapasa confirmed that law enforcement officials would work alongside LTA teams through joint operations, particularly at checkpoints leading to sports venues. They will focus on maintaining adherence to traffic rules and prohibiting dangerous actions, such as waving flags from moving buses.
Earlier, the LTA issued warnings to students to behave appropriately on buses, stating that failure to do so could result in canceled bus services. These warnings align with previous calls from authorities, including the Fijian Teachers Association (FTA), for a collective effort among stakeholders—parents, teachers, and transport authorities—to foster safe conduct among students.
In a positive light, the ongoing discussions and actions taken by the LTA and bus operators showcase a commitment to ensuring safety for all during these events, creating an environment where students can responsibly enjoy their athletic experiences. By working collaboratively, there stands a hopeful prospect of decreasing incidents of misconduct, ultimately leading to a safer public transport experience for students.
The proactive measures being implemented signal both a recognition of the problems at hand and a determination to encourage responsible behavior that protects the welfare of students and the general public.
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