BUS drivers have been given the green light to park their buses or drive to the safety of the nearest police station if students continue to misbehave on buses.
This long standing issue of student safety is being thrust into the spotlight again ahead of the Fiji secondary schools athletics finals.
Over the years, students in uniform have been captured on video brandishing flags, hanging out of bus windows and rocking buses, leading to increased concerns about student safety.
Scrutiny has also been placed on bus drivers and why they don’t immediately put a stop to such rowdy student behaviour.
However, Fiji Bus Operators Association (FBOA) president Richard Lal says bus drivers are not responsible for how students behave while using public transportation.
The role of regulators
Mr Lal says discipline should come from the schools and parents; it is not the driver’s responsibility.
“Bus drivers have been informed if there is any mischievous behaviour, park the bus or go to the police station,” he said.
He said while they could not quantify the damage suffered by bus companies, there were hidden costs.
“Nobody seems to be taking it on board,” Mr Lal said.
“It is common knowledge, and we have taken this to the relevant authorities and the police, but nobody is taking it on.”
When asked about bus drivers who appear to be encouraging this behaviour through loud music and speeding. Mr Lal said bus companies had spoken with their drivers about the need to follow the laws.
“For us, the children’s safety issue is a big concern. And this needs to be addressed.”
LTA to step up operations
As the Fiji Finals draw near, the Land Transport Authority will step up its presence on the roads to monitor these incidents.
In response to queries, LTA media liaison officer Geraldine Panapasa said enforcement officers were actively working in collaboration with the Fiji Police Force through joint operations.
“Joint enforcement teams will be deployed to monitor adherence to traffic rules and regulations at designated checkpoints and areas leading to the sports venue,” she said.
“LTA, in collaboration with the Fiji Police Force and key stakeholders, will put in place a robust plan to ensure the safety and security of students and the general public.
“This is building on last year’s efforts. Targeted joint enforcement operations will be carried out to monitor high-traffic areas and transport corridors commonly used during such large-scale events.”
Ms Panapasa said particular attention would be given to preventing unsafe passenger behaviour, including students waving flags outside moving buses.
She said this act did not only endanger individuals involved but also posed a serious risk to other road users and pedestrians.
“Public safety remains our top priority. In the lead-up to the Fiji Finals, LTA’s road safety education teams will intensify their outreach efforts, conducting school and community visitations to raise awareness about responsible conduct on and around our roads.
“These campaigns focus on promoting safe driver, pedestrian and passenger behaviour, with a strong emphasis on preventing the types of incidents typically observed during major sporting events.”
Students warned
Earlier, the LTA issued a warning to students — behave or walk home.
Ms Panapasa said the LTA’s goal is to create a safe and enjoyable environment for all.
“We urge everyone — students, supporters and the general public — to play their part in making this year’s Fiji Finals a safe celebration of athletic talent.
“In addition to enforcement, the LTA will continue its ongoing engagement with schools, communities, and key stakeholders including PSV operators to promote road safety awareness among PSV drivers, passengers and pedestrians.
“Parents and guardians are also being called upon to play a more active role in supporting efforts to address unsafe passenger behaviour that poses a risk to public safety on our roads.”
Ms Panapasa said the LTA would continue to engage with key stakeholders including the Ministry of Education to ensure appropriate supervision arrangements are in place for students travelling on chartered buses.
“We acknowledge that having teachers present during these journeys — particularly for events such as athletics games — is a proactive and important measure to promote safety and discipline.”
Eyes on PSV drivers
Bus drivers will also be on the radar.
Ms Panapasa said the LTA was actively monitoring the conduct of Public Service Vehicle (PSV) bus drivers.
“PSV drivers are strongly urged to refrain from playing loud music as it can not only distract the driver but also contribute to unruly student behaviour, increasing the risk of accidents and, in severe cases, fatalities.
“LTA is working closely with law enforcement agencies to monitor the issue of loud music in buses and ensure safety protocols are followed.
“Drivers are encouraged to report any incidents involving disorderly passengers or students to the nearest police station or at designated checkpoints enroute to event venues, where police and LTA enforcement officers will be present.”
She said LTA strongly supported the call for responsible student behaviour and urged all students, educators and parents to work together to curb these dangerous passenger conduct.
“Inappropriate conduct, especially on public transport, is a concern that we take seriously and will continue to address through collaboration with relevant agencies, PSV operators and schools.”
