The 2015 Formosa Fun Coast dust explosion in Taiwan that shocked society resulted in 15 deaths and over 400 injuries. The Consumer Protection Association (消基會) helped 98 victims and families of the deceased to file a group lawsuit seeking compensation of up to NT$2.6 billion, and the case has been ongoing for more than six years. On September 19, the first wave of civil litigation was ruled by the Shilin District Court, which determined that the event organizers, Color Play Asia and Ray Bogo International, should pay over NT$458.8 million. However, the former chairman of Formosa Fun Coast and others were exempt from bearing any responsibility, although the Consumer Protection Association emphasized that they will appeal the decision.
The dust explosion occurred on June 27, 2015, during a party organized by Color Play Asia, a company that specializes in color powder events. The event took place at the Formosa Fun Coast water park in New Taipei City and attracted thousands of participants. However, tragedy struck when the colored powder ignited, causing a massive explosion and injuring hundreds of people. The explosion was so powerful that it launched flames several meters high and sent debris flying in all directions.
The incident caused immediate chaos and panic, with injured victims seeking medical help and emergency services rushing to the scene. The water park was quickly evacuated, and an investigation was launched to determine the cause of the explosion. It was discovered that the color powder used at the event contained a highly flammable substance, which, when ignited, resulted in the devastating explosion.
In the aftermath of the incident, families of the deceased and injured victims sought justice and compensation for the loss and suffering they had experienced. The Consumer Protection Association stepped in to assist them in filing a group lawsuit against the event organizers and the former chairman of Formosa Fun Coast.
After more than six years of legal battles, the Shilin District Court finally handed down its ruling on the first wave of civil litigation. It held Color Play Asia and Ray Bogo International, as the main organizers of the event, responsible for the explosion and ordered them to pay over NT$458.8 million in compensation to the victims and their families. However, the court declared the former chairman of Formosa Fun Coast and others not liable for any damages.
While the ruling provided some measure of justice for the victims and their families, the Consumer Protection Association announced that it would appeal the decision. The association argued that the former chairman of Formosa Fun Coast should also bear responsibility for the incident and contribute to the compensation funds.
The case sheds light on the importance of safety regulations and the need for accountability in event planning and management. It also highlights the need for victims and their families to receive fair compensation for their losses and to hold those responsible accountable for their actions.
As the legal battle continues, the victims and their families hope for a just outcome that provides them with the closure and compensation they deserve. Meanwhile, society as a whole reflects on the lessons learned from this tragic event and works towards preventing similar incidents in the future.
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