The recent amusement ride incident at the beginning of the 2024 Miss Hibiscus Festival has sparked significant concerns regarding public safety at festivals. While the event traditionally brings families and friends together in a festive atmosphere, safety issues can overshadow the joy when proper protocols are neglected.
The Miss Hibiscus Festival is a significant event in Fiji, celebrated for its delicious food, lively music, and strong community ties. The enticing smells of popcorn, barbecues, and a variety of cuisines, particularly iTaukei dishes, fill the air, attracting people from all backgrounds and ages.
After a five-year hiatus, the return of the Miss Hibiscus Festival in 2024 should be a moment of joy. However, this happiness must not be compromised due to safety negligence. The recent ride accident serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for stringent safety measures in amusement operations.
Many amusement rides have been in service for years and are often brought back into operation with minimal inspections. This practice can pose serious risks. Although Fiji has experienced minor festival incidents in the past, the tragic event last June, where a 21-year-old woman lost her life due to a Ferris wheel malfunction, highlighted the urgent need for enhanced safety protocols. In North America, over 1,197 ride accidents have occurred in just one year, prompting concerns about Fiji’s readiness to handle similar emergencies.
While the festival is intended to be a time of fun and excitement, safety must always be a priority. Families should feel secure while enjoying the thrilling rides, with assurances that their children won’t be exposed to potential harm. The festival committee’s commitment to ensuring that all rides are properly checked and certified should be treated with caution; rigorous and transparent safety evaluations are essential, particularly after any mishap.
The decision by the Hibiscus Festival committee to suspend the malfunctioning ride was a necessary one, but it should not be seen as a short-term solution. The Ministry of Industrial Relations’ OHS Department needs to enforce strict safety standards, ensuring all operators are certified and that medical personnel are present throughout the event. Establishing safety zones with softer surfaces rather than hard ground could significantly mitigate risks.
As the festival continues over the next few days, the emphasis should be on enjoyment and creating joyful memories without the fear of injuries or theft. Organizers must be diligent in maintaining safety and security, taking proactive measures to restore public confidence.
Additionally, as we celebrate the Miss Hibiscus Festival 2024, we must remember to protect our environment. Current beautification efforts in Suva should be upheld and not compromised by littering or vandalism.
Opetaia Ravai, the committee chairman, rightly emphasized the shared objective of creating lasting and secure memories. It is crucial to heed this important reminder and enjoy the festival in a safe environment.