Fiji Says No EIA Needed After Walu Bay Fuel Leak — Regulators Keep Watch

The Fijian government has announced that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is not necessary at this time following a recent fuel leak at the Petro Oceania facility located in Walu Bay. Authorities have determined that the incident was contained within the facility and there is no confirmed discharge into the broader marine environment.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka addressed concerns from The Fiji Times, explaining that regulatory measures will be enforced under existing waste and pollution control laws. The Department of Environment is actively conducting inspections and monitoring the situation to ensure compliance and safety.

Mr. Rabuka clarified that the correct approach involves enforcing regulations set forth in the Environment Management Act and the Waste Disposal and Recycling Regulations. He reassured the public that should any evidence of environmental impact beyond the facility’s boundaries emerge, further assessments and necessary remediation actions will be implemented in accordance with legal requirements.

To mitigate the situation, the company has been instructed to thoroughly clean affected areas within the facility, including the pump station and surrounding surfaces. Special care is being taken to capture all wash water, which is directed into a separator pit to prevent any discharge into drainage systems or waterways. Petro Oceania is fully accountable for the costs associated with cleaning and remediation efforts.

Additionally, inspectors have mandated ongoing containment measures, controlled cleanup operations, and verification processes to ensure that no fuel escapes the site. Rabuka highlighted that further regulatory notices would be forthcoming, particularly regarding maintenance upgrades to address aging infrastructure and to prevent future leaks at previously repaired locations.

This decisive action underscores the government’s commitment to safeguarding the environment and holding companies accountable for their operations, fostering hope for a cleaner and safer future for Walu Bay and its surrounding marine environment. By closely monitoring the situation and enforcing compliance measures, there is a positive outlook for the restoration and protection of local ecosystems.