Two abandoned vessels used for transporting bauxite have been discovered in Naiviqiri, Bua, prompting concerns from local villagers about potential environmental hazards. Residents are calling for urgent action to resolve the situation.
Filimoni Vosarogo, the Minister for Lands and Mineral Resources, acknowledged that the vessels should have been removed by now. He expressed uncertainty about the company’s plans regarding the derelict ships. “It certainly is an eyesore there,” he remarked.
Mr. Vosarogo noted that he observed the vessels during a ministerial visit to the North last year and questioned why they had not been cleared yet. He indicated that he would engage with the company to discuss their plans for salvaging the vessels. “We will need to be prompt to liaise with the company just to find out what their plans are,” he stated.