The arrival of Goundar Shipping’s new fast ferry, MV Captain Inoke, has sparked significant controversy due to the lack of prior surveying by Fiji’s licensing authorities. Joeli Cawaki, the CEO of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), confirmed that the ship would undergo surveying this week, following complications that prevented an initial inspection in Korea due to political unrest in the country.
Goundar Shipping’s managing director, George Goundar, expressed his frustration with the bureaucratic delays and what he perceives as jealousy surrounding the ferry’s arrival. He noted that the costs of keeping the vessel docked in Korea were substantial, amounting to approximately $4,000 per day, which includes labor, wharfage, and crew wages. Goundar asserted that while the necessary documentation could be completed quickly in Korea or Japan, MSAF’s process could take four to five months, leading to a significant financial burden.
The MV Captain Inoke is set to operate routes including Natovi and Savusavu, and Goundar is optimistic about the swift completion of the surveying and licensing process, stating his desire for resolution “sooner rather than later.”
This situation underscores the challenges facing shipping operations in the region, particularly in times of unforeseen political and logistical hurdles. The new ferry holds promise for enhancing transport connectivity in Fiji, potentially benefiting local communities by providing improved access and mobility.
In summary, the MV Captain Inoke’s arrival is marked by administrative challenges and the hope that these issues will be resolved promptly, allowing for the ferry to begin its intended routes and contribute positively to the transport infrastructure in Fiji.
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