The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has urged bus operators and drivers to prioritize safety in light of a concerning incident in Ba, where a bus carrying children became stranded in rapidly rising floodwaters. Fortunately, all passengers were safely evacuated, but LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa emphasized that operators and drivers who jeopardize public safety will face severe enforcement measures.
Rokosawa also referenced a separate incident where a bus driver received a Traffic Infringement Notice after a video emerged on social media, showing students precariously riding on the ledge of open windows. He expressed concern over issues such as overcrowding, reckless behavior among passengers, and negligent driving practices.
He stated, “No child should be forced to travel in unsafe conditions due to overloading. Drivers must ensure all students are seated safely before departure and must take immediate action if unsafe behavior occurs.” Adding further weight to the conversation, Rokosawa highlighted the critical need for vehicle maintenance and adherence to licensing obligations. He pointed out that all school buses are required to undergo routine inspections to guarantee their roadworthiness, focusing on essential safety features such as brakes, tyres, lights, mirrors, and emergency exits.
This call for action underscores a proactive approach to ensuring the safety of students on school buses, reinforcing the shared responsibility of drivers and operators in maintaining safe transport conditions. The LTA’s commitment to enforcing compliance aims to prevent future incidents and enhance passenger safety.