The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) and Fiji Ports Corporation Ltd (FPCL) have established a committee aimed at facilitating the weekly removal of abandoned and derelict vessels. This initiative is intended to expedite the removal process.
Public Works, Communications, Transport and Meteorological Services Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau indicated that the program will fall under the Seaport Management and Maritime Transport Act. A recent meeting has pinpointed wrecks and abandoned vessels, prompting the issuance of a letter of vessel concern to owners and agents, urging them to make their vessels seaworthy. Should they fail to comply within 30 days, a removal process letter will follow, requiring action within 21 days. Non-compliance could lead to vessel seizure or auction if the vessels hold any value.
In instances where a vessel is deemed beyond economic repair, it will be seized for removal, which may include scuttling or sinking in designated diving areas deeper than 30 meters. The initial removals are expected to commence next month.
Earlier in June, discussions were held regarding the formation of a national committee for the appropriate disposal of shipwrecks and derelict vessels around Fiji, highlighting the environmental risks posed by these abandoned ships. Complaints have also been raised from the Lau Group about wrecked ships on reefs.
The concern over derelict vessels has persisted since at least March 2014, when issues surrounding the littering of Suva Harbour were brought to light. At that time, 116 ships were recorded in the harbour, with a noted increase in fishing vessels due to the arrival of overseas companies seeking to berth in Fiji during the off-season.
The harbour master noted that some vessels were drawn to Suva to utilize local infrastructure due to damage in other regions. The economic appeal for parent companies to berth in Fiji, rather than returning to Asian ports, contributed to the problem of derelict vessels.
Former attorney-general Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum has estimated the cost of removing these derelict ships from Suva, Lautoka, and Levuka harbours to be around $59 million. Many of these abandoned vessels have local owners neglecting their responsibilities.
To protect the integrity of our harbours, decisive action must be taken against derelict vessels, which not only compromise safety but also jeopardize the environment. The presence of these abandoned ships detracts from the natural beauty of our waters. It is critical to uphold safety and environmental standards in Suva Harbour, ensuring it remains a safe and attractive location for all users.