Thirteen students were treated at Vunidawa Hospital following an accident in Navuniyasi, Naitasiri, on the morning of the incident. According to Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations (ACP) Livai Driu, the driver of the carrier reportedly lost control, causing the vehicle to veer off the road and resulting in the unfortunate accident.
Initial reports indicated limited information, but authorities are currently investigating the incident, which involved students who were on their way to their annual examinations. Unfortunately, a cow was also suspected to have been killed when the vehicle went off the road.
The Ministry of Education was not available for comment, but this accident has sparked concerns regarding the safety of school children, particularly those in rural and maritime regions who rely on carriers for transportation to school.
This follows a similar incident in July, where another carrier transporting 11 students from Adi Maopa Secondary School in Vanuabalavu, Lau, lost control and fell down a hill near Daliconi Village. In that incident, six students required treatment for their injuries at Lomaloma Hospital.
This series of accidents underscores the urgent need to address the safety of school children in transport, especially in rural areas. It is hoped that this incident will lead to improved safety regulations and greater awareness regarding the transport of students, ensuring their protection as they travel to and from school.
In summary, while the recent accident is concerning, it also presents an opportunity for stakeholders to come together to enhance transportation safety for students, fostering a safer commuting environment.
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