A regular workday for 50 hotel staff in Fiji turned chaotic when their bus veered off the Denarau Bridge at approximately 7:50 AM yesterday. The vehicle, operated by Classic Buses Ltd, ended up landing in a swamp below. In response to the incident, emergency services swiftly transported 43 injured passengers to Zens Medical Hospital in Nadi Town, while seven others were taken to Nadi Hospital for treatment.
Investigations into the cause of the accident are ongoing, with police working diligently to determine the circumstances surrounding this troubling event. Classic Buses Ltd has expressed their full cooperation with authorities and stated that they are conducting their own internal review. The company emphasized its commitment to the safety and well-being of all passengers and staff, issuing a statement that highlighted their quickly mobilized response to assist emergency services and ensure that each injured person received prompt medical attention.
The bus was contracted to transport staff of Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, and Classic Buses reiterated its dedication to stringent safety procedures, regular fleet maintenance, and continuous driver training. Although the company strives to maintain high safety standards, they acknowledged that unforeseen incidents can occur, underscoring the need for support and preventive measures moving forward.
Concerns about road safety in Fiji have heightened following this incident, echoing previous discussions surrounding other recent bus-related accidents, including another serious incident in Dreketilailai. Such occurrences have sparked calls from authorities for stricter adherence to road safety regulations, aiming to mitigate risks for all road users.
While incidents like this are alarming, the swift response from emergency services serves as a reminder of the communal effort required to ensure passenger safety. Community members and officials remain hopeful that this unfortunate event can lead to enhanced safety measures and foster greater awareness about responsible driving practices, ultimately paving the way for safer travel experiences across the nation.