The removal of derelict vessels from Suva Harbour is set to commence this month, according to Joeli Cawaki, CEO of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF). After thorough legal evaluations, a joint committee has established a course of action for disposing of abandoned vessels safely and properly.
Cawaki confirmed that all 34 derelict vessels in the harbour have been surveyed for removal, with plans to finalize a site for scuttling within January. The MSAF is collaborating with interested parties, including Dayal’s Steel in Ba, to manage the disposal process, as the authority does not have a dedicated budget for this task.
The legal provisions explored in the Seaport Management Act, MSAF Act, and the Maritime Transport Act empower the authority to remove unused boats if their owners fail to act. The vessels will be handed to interested companies to disassemble and recycle the steel, which not only serves economic purposes for these companies but also helps MSAF achieve its objective of decluttering the harbour.
An alternative method considered was towing the derelict boats out to sea, which would incur costs exceeding one million dollars—a budget that MSAF currently lacks. Instead, the agreement with steel companies allows for an efficient solution that benefits both parties.
This initiative not only addresses safety and environmental concerns but also facilitates local businesses by providing them with necessary materials for steel production. The removal of these vessels marks a significant step toward maintaining Suva Harbour’s integrity and enhancing maritime safety.
In summary, the removal initiative is a noteworthy example of collaboration between government authorities and private enterprises, striving towards a cleaner and safer maritime environment while also supporting local industries. It reflects a proactive approach to maritime management that could set a precedent for similar actions in other regions.
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