The Government of Fiji is taking significant steps to address the increasing issue of abandoned and derelict vessels in Suva Harbour, particularly as the cyclone season approaches, raising concerns over safety and environmental risks. Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, announced in Parliament on Monday that a collaborative effort among multiple agencies is being established to enhance surveillance, enforcement, and maritime safety measures.
The initiative involves the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), Fiji Ports Corporation Ltd (FPCL), the Fiji Navy, Water Police, and the Ministry of Environment, all working together to tackle challenges such as drifting vessels, potential collisions, and marine pollution. This proactive system comes with a significant boost in funding; the Waitt Foundation has committed $1 million (approximately $F2.29 million) to support the removal of derelict vessels through its Derelict Vessel Removal Programme.
Three bids have been submitted for the removal contract and are currently being assessed. The contractual Terms of Reference are expected to be finalized by December 1, 2025, with actual removal work anticipated to commence shortly thereafter, aiming for project completion by July 31, 2026.
In addition to the removal efforts, Mr. Tuisawau mentioned that a review of existing legislation is underway to prevent future vessel abandonment, a persistent issue that has implications for navigation and environmental health in the harbour. The Ministry is also seeking permission from the Cabinet to form a Joint Maritime Environmental Committee and to work towards adhering to the Nairobi Wreck Removal Convention, a global agreement that mandates shipowners to efficiently remove hazardous wrecks from marine environments.
These advancements are poised to enhance long-term maritime safety, ensure compliance, and bolster Fiji’s resilience to the impacts of increasingly severe weather events, reflecting a determined effort to improve maritime conditions in the region.
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