Bus Operators Call on Drivers to Use Their Common Sense
The Fiji Bus Operators Association is appalled that two young students were stopped from boarding a bus because their bus cards did not appear to work.
A video that has been circulating on social media, recorded the two young girls who were seen walking home as they were denied boarding a bus.
Association general secretary, Rohit Latchan, said bus operators do not condone this lack of compassion and were disappointed because the driver had no right at all to do what he did
“The unknown driver’s action is inhumane,” Mr Latchan said.
“Given the students age and the situation that they were in the driver should have let them board the bus.”
Mr Latchan said they understand that drivers must ensure that passengers tap their bus cards and obtain a receipt at the risk of being fined.
“However, there are cases where discretion, empathy and common sense should be exercised to prevent a situation in which two young students found themselves alone along a busy road late in the day and far from home,” he said.
The two Lautoka Muslim Primary School students were emotional as they told their experience on the video saying that they were not allowed on the bus by the driver.
It has raised serious concerns with members of the public.
Mr Latchan said the association would investigate this matter and will not take it lightly because it was a serious matter concerning the safety of school children. The association will also raise this matter with LTA to also take action.
“This is not acceptable and the association is disturbed seeing the video,” he said.
The Ministry of Education has also released a media statement regarding this matter.