Commuters in Fiji are voicing urgent concerns about a serious cockroach infestation in a bus servicing the route between Suva and Nausori. Passengers reported finding numerous cockroaches inside the vehicle, raising alarm about health and safety standards in public transportation.
Health Concerns Raised by Commuters
A commuter shared a distressing experience with El-Balad, noting that the bus was visibly affected by the infestation. A video submitted to El-Balad displays multiple cockroaches crawling along the bus ceiling and seating areas, causing unease among passengers during their journey.
Ineffective Maintenance and Hygiene Standards
Passengers are questioning the hygiene protocols and maintenance practices applied to public transport vehicles. This issue comes as many depend on this bus route for their daily commutes.
Authorities Remain Silent
On a quest for clarity, inquiries were made to the President of the Fiji Bus Operators Association, Richard Lal, last Wednesday. However, no response has been received thus far.
Additionally, questions were directed to the Land Transport Authority, seeking information on their inspection procedures and the enforcement of cleanliness standards for public service vehicles. This authority has also not yet provided an update.
- Location: Suva-Nausori Bus Route
- Key Concern: Cockroach infestation on public transport
- Reported by: Commuters, through videos and testimonies
- Responses from: Fiji Bus Operators Association, Land Transport Authority – pending
This situation highlights the pressing need for improved maintenance and hygiene inspections in Fiji’s public transportation system. Without a timely response from authorities, the health and safety of daily commuters remain at risk.
