Maintenance dredging at the Denarau Marina channel is long overdue, according to Cynthia Rasch, the chief executive officer of Port Denarau Marina. She expressed appreciation for the Government’s allocation of funds aimed at addressing this issue.
During the last parliamentary session, Finance Minister Biman Prasad announced that $5.5 million has been earmarked for dredging works to mitigate flooding and enhance infrastructure at Denarau, which he emphasized is crucial for the tourism economy.
The Denarau Marina channel was last dredged in 2012, and the matter has been a point of discussion with the Ministry of Tourism and Waterways since then. Rasch stated, “Port Denarau Marina fully supports this development, as it aligns with our ongoing efforts to ensure the marina remains a safe and accessible hub for vessels, which is critical for maintaining the strength of tourism—a key pillar of the Fijian economy.”
She added that Port Denarau Marina is currently awaiting final approval for its dredging license, which is under review by the Solicitor General’s office. “We are constantly exploring ways to enhance our facilities. Once our dredging license is approved, we will issue a press release outlining our plans for the marina,” she said.
The marina, in partnership with its shareholders, aims to foster economic growth while protecting the environment and serving the community. However, Sakiasi Ditoka, the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, noted that the project is still under consideration.
Ditoka mentioned, “The technical people are still conducting studies to determine the exact locations for dredging. We are grateful that funds have been allocated and that the work will proceed.” He emphasized the importance of government support for the tourism sector.
“Dredging will facilitate improved access for certain classes of vessels that have had difficulty reaching their designated berths,” he explained. He also highlighted that the dredging would alleviate some flooding issues, particularly in the Nadi area, which has experienced significant flooding and soil erosion.
Ditoka acknowledged the resilience of communities affected by continuous flooding and stated that various plans will be implemented alongside river dredging efforts. He confirmed that provisions to dredge the Nadi Riverbank adjacent to Malolo, within the town boundary, are in place.
“We must be cautious with the dredging process,” he warned, noting that in some areas of Fiji, dredging has led to saltwater intrusion. “We are studying the situation carefully to determine the necessary extent of dredging, as we want to ensure it does not create more problems.”