The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has announced the closure of the Ellington wharf in Rakiraki due to significant damage. The order, issued by MSAF CEO Joeli Cawaki, applies to all parties involved, including ship owners, ship masters, shipping companies, marine service providers, and agents. The closure is effective from 5:00 PM on January 6 and will remain in place until further notice.
During a recent inspection by The Fiji Times, it was noted that the wharf exhibited large cracks and substantial concrete damage. Despite these issues, the Goundar Shipping vessel, Joseph P, was observed loading passengers, cargo, and vehicles before departing at 5:45 PM.
While the closure of the wharf presents challenges for maritime operations in the area, it reflects the authorities’ commitment to ensuring safety and preventing potential accidents. This proactive measure highlights the importance of maintaining infrastructure integrity for the wellbeing of both workers and passengers.
The situation serves as a reminder of the need for ongoing maintenance and assessment of critical maritime facilities, ultimately leading to safer transportation options in the future.
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