Concerns have been expressed about the safety of the Nabouwalu Terminal, which is situated near the coast, raising questions about security in the context of coastal development. Dr. Sivendra Michael, the Permanent Secretary for Environment, remarked that all development projects, including the terminal, must undergo rigorous environmental impact assessments (EIA) as part of a strict screening process.
He admitted that he was unsure whether the appropriate procedures were followed in the case of the Nabouwalu Terminal, stating, “I don’t think I can comment on the case itself. I’ll have to go back and check the file on what was the decision that had come out under the Environmental Management Act.” Dr. Michael emphasized the authority of the director of the environment and the town council to issue a stop order or prohibition notice if the correct processes were not adhered to, reiterating that all forms of development need to follow regulatory protocols.
This situation mirrors previous incidents such as the Great Han Residential Development, which faced a stop work order by the Department of Environment due to similar compliance issues with the environmental regulations. Residents had raised concerns about the Great Han project not conforming to EIA requirements, leading to collective action from local communities like the Tamavua Action Group.
The proactive measures taken concerning the Nabouwalu Terminal reflect a broader commitment to environmental safety within development projects, echoing the sentiments shared in various past reports. This underlines the importance of public participation and regulatory adherence in community development, promising a responsible approach to safeguarding both the environment and the safety of infrastructural projects.
This highlights the necessity for vigilant oversight in coastal and other types of developments, aiming for a balance between progress and environmental conservation, indicating the potential for collaborative efforts between authorities and communities for improved safety measures in the future.
Leave a comment