Maintenance dredging at the Denarau Marina channel has been urgently needed, according to Cynthia Rasch, the chief executive officer of Port Denarau Marina. She expressed appreciation for the Government’s recent allocation of funds aimed at supporting this initiative.
During a recent parliamentary session, Finance Minister Biman Prasad announced that $5.5 million has been allocated for dredging works intended to mitigate flooding and enhance infrastructure at Denarau, which is vital for tourism and economic growth.
The last dredging of the Denarau Marina channel occurred in 2012, and the issue has been discussed with the Ministry of Tourism and Waterways since then. Rasch emphasized Port Denarau Marina’s commitment to the dredging project, highlighting its role in ensuring the marina remains a safe and accessible hub for vessels, crucial for the tourism sector that underpins the Fijian economy.
Currently, Port Denarau Marina is awaiting the final approval of its dredging license from the Solicitor General’s office. Rasch noted that once the license is granted, they will release additional information regarding their plans for the marina.
The marina and its stakeholders remain dedicated to promoting economic growth while protecting the environment and serving the community. However, Minister for Rural & Maritime Development and Disaster Management, Sakiasi Ditoka, mentioned that the project is still under consideration. He stated that technical studies are ongoing to determine the specifics of the dredging process but expressed gratitude for the allocated funds and the anticipated work.
Ditoka highlighted the importance of supporting the tourism sector and noted that the dredging would facilitate vessel access to appropriate berthing locations. This project is expected to alleviate some flooding issues that have plagued the Nadi area, particularly in villages like Yavusania, which have suffered from soil erosion.
He also confirmed plans to dredge the Nadi Riverbank near Malolo, within the town boundary. Caution is being advised in the dredging process due to potential saltwater intrusion in certain areas of Fiji. Ditoka confirmed that careful assessments are being conducted to ensure that the dredging efforts are effective and do not lead to further complications.