Maintenance dredging at the Denarau Marina channel is overdue, according to Cynthia Rasch, the chief executive officer of Port Denarau Marina. Rasch expressed appreciation for the government’s allocation of funds aimed at strengthening infrastructure and mitigating flooding, which was announced by Minister of Finance Biman Prasad during the last parliamentary session. The $5.5 million funding is deemed essential for supporting the tourism economy.
The Denarau Marina channel, which was last dredged in 2012, has been a topic of discussion with the Ministry of Tourism and Waterways. Rasch noted that Port Denarau Marina fully endorses the development, emphasizing its importance for ensuring a safe and accessible environment for vessels, which is vital for Fijian tourism.
Port Denarau Marina is currently awaiting final approval of its dredging license, which is with the Solicitor General’s office. Rasch stated that once the license is granted, the marina will announce its plans for enhancements.
The marina remains committed to promoting economic growth and protecting the environment. However, Minister for Rural & Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka, mentioned that the dredging project is still under consideration. He highlighted that technical studies are being conducted to determine the specific areas for dredging but noted gratitude for the allocated funds.
Ditoka emphasized the interconnectedness of the tourism sector and expressed that the dredging will enable larger vessels to access their designated berths. He added that the dredging would provide relief and complement existing plans to address flooding issues, especially in areas like Yavusania Village in Nadi, which has faced soil erosion.
He confirmed plans for dredging the Nadi Riverbank adjacent to Malolo and assured that studies are in place to address potential issues caused by dredging, such as saltwater intrusion. The precautionary approach aims to ensure the dredging efforts provide solutions rather than create additional problems.