Maintenance dredging at the Denarau Marina channel has been overdue, according to Cynthia Rasch, the chief executive officer of Port Denarau Marina. She expressed enthusiasm for the Government’s allocation of funds to support this initiative.
During the last parliamentary session, Finance Minister Biman Prasad announced a $5.5 million allocation for dredging works aimed at mitigating flooding and strengthening infrastructure at Denarau, highlighting the project’s importance to the tourism economy.
The Denarau Marina channel was last dredged in 2012, and the need for further dredging has been a topic of discussion with the Ministry of Tourism and Waterways. Rasch reiterated Port Denarau Marina’s support for the dredging project, noting that it is essential for maintaining a safe and accessible hub for vessels, crucial for the tourism sector, a key component of the Fijian economy.
She mentioned that the marina is currently waiting for final approval of its dredging license from the Solicitor General’s office. “Once our dredging license is approved, we will issue a press release outlining our plans for the marina,” Rasch stated.
The marina, along with its shareholders, remains dedicated to promoting economic growth while protecting the environment and serving the community.
However, Sakiasi Ditoka, the Minister for Rural & Maritime Development and Disaster Management, indicated that the project is still under consideration. He emphasized that technical studies are ongoing to determine the dredging specifics but expressed gratitude for the allocation of funds and the impending work.
“It is important that the tourism sector receives the necessary government support,” Ditoka said. He noted that the dredging would allow various classes of vessels to dock properly, enhancing tourist experiences.
Ditoka also pointed out that the dredging would alleviate flooding issues in the Nadi area, specifically in communities such as Yavusania Village, which have suffered from soil erosion. He acknowledged the resilience of the residents, who have faced continuous flooding over the years, and mentioned that additional plans will be developed alongside the river dredging.
He confirmed plans to dredge the Nadi Riverbank adjacent to Malolo, within the town’s boundary. However, he cautioned that the dredging must be approached carefully to avoid causing saltwater intrusion in areas where it has previously occurred. “We need to ensure that it helps rather than creates more problems,” he added.