Tourists exploring key destinations in the Central Division have expressed their disappointment over the poor condition of the beachfront, particularly following the recent New Year celebrations. Visitors to Pacific Harbour this week reported being shocked and disillusioned by the state of the popular beach, which experienced heavy foot traffic during the holiday festivities.
Many tourists, including those staying at nearby resorts, flocked to the beach to celebrate the new year, enjoying food and drinks brought by locals. However, in the aftermath, they discovered a shoreline littered with garbage—bottles, plastic waste, food packaging, and other debris. This scene starkly contrasts with the pristine image that Fiji typically promotes.
Margie Spainhower, an American scuba diving enthusiast who has been visiting Pacific Harbour for years, voiced her concerns regarding the pollution. Describing this year’s condition as one of the worst she’s experienced, she lamented the increasing amount of rubbish found in the water during her dives, which included netting, ropes, and various types of debris.
“Rubbish is everywhere, and it’s disgusting. It’s harmful to the environment and to the creatures under the sea,” she said. Spainhower warned that if the situation doesn’t improve, it could significantly harm tourism in the area.
She emphasized the importance of education and community intervention to tackle this issue effectively. “Education for the residents, their children, and the government would have a huge impact. Something needs to be done to resolve this problem,” she added.
The challenge of maintaining clean beaches in Fiji, especially after festive occasions, is a recurring concern, particularly in tourist-dependent areas like Pacific Harbour. While local residents and community organizations often lead cleanup initiatives, the sheer volume of litter following the New Year festivities raises questions about the effectiveness of current measures.
In summary, the plight of Pacific Harbour’s beachfront serves as a wake-up call for communities and authorities alike to reinforce waste management practices and enhance public awareness. By prioritizing pollution prevention and sustainable tourism, there’s hope for a cleaner and more inviting Pacific Harbour, ensuring that it remains a cherished destination for visitors in the years to come.
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