Ferry travelers are being encouraged to report any defects or safety concerns regarding shipping vessels to ensure their wellbeing. This initiative comes from Joeli Cawaki, the CEO of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), amid ongoing worries about the maintenance of some vessels.
Mr. Cawaki highlighted the necessity of notifying MSAF about any issues promptly, enabling operators to take swift action and maintain public safety, especially with the upcoming festive season approaching. He stated, “Passengers pay fares with the expectation of quality service. Their safety remains paramount.”
He also mentioned that certain vessels known to have a history of defects will be under close observation during this busy period. Each vessel is required to implement a reliable ship management system to guarantee passenger safety.
In discussions about breaches concerning passenger capacity limits, Mr. Cawaki indicated that vessels will be halted until the root cause of the issue is understood and addressed before they can return to service. He emphasized the importance of identifying the underlying reasons behind such breaches to implement necessary corrections effectively.
While acknowledging the financial challenges related to ship maintenance, Mr. Cawaki urged operators to maintain regular upkeep to prevent serious problems. He encouraged passengers to report any uncomfortable seating arrangements or unhygienic conditions, as these have been recurring issues highlighted across social media platforms.
MSAF remains dedicated to monitoring the hygiene of vessels and enforcing adherence to safety regulations, aiming to provide a safe and pleasant experience for all passengers. Mr. Cawaki also reminded operators to ensure they stick to their shipping schedules to facilitate timely pick-ups and drop-offs, promoting a more efficient service overall.
With these proactive measures and encouragement for passenger involvement, MSAF is taking significant steps towards enhancing maritime safety and passenger experience in Fiji. This collaborative effort fosters greater accountability among operators and instills confidence in travelers regarding their safety during the festive season.
Summary: The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji is urging ferry passengers to report any defects or safety concerns about shipping vessels to ensure public safety, particularly during the festive season. CEO Joeli Cawaki emphasized that prompt reporting allows for swift action by operators. MSAF remains committed to monitoring vessel hygiene and compliance with safety standards while reminding operators about maintenance and schedule adherence.
Leave a comment