The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) is set to begin the process of removing 34 derelict vessels from Suva Harbour next month. Joweli Cawaki, the chief executive officer of MSAF, explained that the vessels will need to be relocated to deeper waters for scrapping, as previous attempts at Draunibota Bay, Lami were hindered by shallow conditions.
Cawaki mentioned that discussions are underway with a Chinese company based in Nausori, which has experience in removing abandoned ships, to facilitate the operation. The scrapping process is expected to officially start on January 15, with the assistance of this company.
Furthermore, MSAF is collaborating with the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) to conduct a feasibility study concerning sunken vessels in the area. A local firm will be tasked with this study to assess costs and essential findings.
Cawaki is also reaching out to the South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) for funding assistance, but he emphasized that this will only be feasible once the initial study is completed. He encouraged landowners in coastal regions to lend their support in the removal efforts. He stated, “We have the scrapping company, but we need a deeper part of the ocean so that it doesn’t disrupt marine life.”
This initiative showcases Fiji’s commitment to maintaining its marine environment and addressing maritime safety issues, potentially setting a positive precedent for other regions facing similar challenges.
In summary, MSAF is actively working towards the removal of derelict vessels in Suva Harbour by engaging with local and international partners, which reflects a proactive approach to environmental preservation and safety at sea.
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