The Ministry of Environment has issued a prohibition notice to Energy Fiji Limited (EFL) following an investigation into an oil discharge at their Sigatoka Pump Station. Reports from residents in the nearby villages of Vunavutu and Nasama prompted immediate inspections, which confirmed that the discharge was indeed from the EFL facility.
Environmental inspectors collected samples that revealed the spilled material was waste oil. In response, EFL has been instructed to flush out any residual lubricant oil from the soil outside their operational boundaries to prevent further contamination of local waterways. The Ministry has made it clear that all activities causing the oil discharge must cease, and the prohibition notice will remain in effect until EFL demonstrates adequate containment measures.
This oil discharge incident has raised significant concerns among local communities who depend on the river for their daily needs. Similar to past events involving pollution from EFL, residents have expressed doubts about the efficacy of the company’s initial responses to such environmental crises.
The community’s vigilance is crucial in reporting incidents that may threaten their environment, and the Ministry’s active involvement signifies a commitment to safeguarding natural resources in Fiji. The collaborative efforts between the government and local communities emphasize the importance of maintaining environmental integrity and upholding public health.
As efforts continue to resolve this situation, there remains hope that through persistent community engagement and proactive governmental action, the ecological balance can be restored, ensuring a healthier environment for current and future generations.
Leave a comment