A bus contracted by Sheraton Denarau was involved in a serious accident early this morning, resulting in numerous injuries among passengers. The accident occurred around 7:50 AM as the Classic Buses Ltd vehicle, which was transporting resort staff, was headed toward the hotel. Emergency services responded quickly to the scene, with 50 passengers reported injured. Among them, 43 were transported to Zens Medical Hospital in Nadi Town, while seven others received treatment at Nadi Hospital.
Classic Buses Ltd confirmed the incident and emphasized that the safety and well-being of its passengers and staff are their utmost priority. The company stated that they are fully cooperating with local authorities during the investigation and have initiated an internal review to ensure compliance with operational and safety standards.
Witnesses reported that the bus veered off the road and landed on its side in a swamp, similar to recent incidents in Fiji where concerns about road safety have risen due to a string of bus-related accidents. Community concerns echo those discussed following another accident where a bus veered off a bridge, further underscoring the pressing need for improved safety measures among public service vehicles.
In a statement, Classic Buses acknowledged the unpredictability of accidents despite rigorous safety protocols and ongoing driver training. The company urged the public to refrain from sharing unverified information about the incident on social media, as they focus on supporting those affected and preventing future mishaps.
The swift actions of emergency services in addressing this situation highlight the community’s commitment to ensuring safety on the roads. Although such incidents are distressing, they can serve as a catalyst for enhancing safety measures and fostering a culture of vigilance among all road users in Fiji. With ongoing investigations, there is hope that lessons learned will lead to strategic improvements aimed at reducing road-related risks and promoting safer travel for everyone.