Opposition MP Virendra Lal is urging the Ministry of Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations to enhance the legislation surrounding amusement rides to ensure the safety of the public and prevent further accidents. His call for action follows a recent incident involving a Ferris wheel at the Wairiki Sevens, which raised concerns about the safety of amusement attractions.

Lal emphasized the necessity for the government to prioritize public safety by enforcing stringent safety standards, suggesting that all amusement rides should undergo regular inspections and maintenance. He stated, “The safety of our people remains a priority that cannot be taken lightly; we do not want further tragic accidents. It is about time the authorities implemented the right measures—shutting down these rides until they can be certified as safe.”

The MP pointed out that the incident at the Wairiki Sevens highlights the dangers associated with outdated and poorly maintained rides, though fortunately, it did not result in any fatalities. He referenced a tragic accident that occurred at the Fiji Showcase in 2023 where a young woman lost her life, illustrating a significant failure in safety protocols.

As the Shadow Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, Lal expressed deep concern regarding the oversight provided by the Occupational Health and Safety department. He remarked, “Our amusement rides are not safe, and it appears the OHS department is neglecting its responsibilities.” The remark comes in light of a separate incident on August 1st, where a child’s life was put at risk due to a malfunctioning ride, reinforcing the need for immediate action.

Lal stressed that the safety of children must not be compromised and criticized the current safety measures as inadequate, along with the age of the rides in operation. He concluded by stating that although the latest accident did not have fatal consequences, the situation could serve as a crucial wake-up call to prioritize safety in amusement parks.

This situation highlights the importance of vigilance and proactive measures to ensure public safety, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children. The increased scrutiny and calls for change may lead to more rigorous enforcement of safety regulations, ultimately creating a safer environment for all amusement park visitors.