Goundar Shipping Ltd is facing significant backlash from Fiji’s Environment Minister, Mosese Bulitavu, following a recent investigation that revealed the company’s abandoned vessel, the Lomaiviti Princess II, leaked oil into Suva Harbour. The vessel has been left to deteriorate since 2019, and authorities noted that the company does not possess valid waste disposal permits for any of its ships.
The Joint Maritime Environment Committee conducted a thorough investigation, which concluded that Goundar Shipping’s neglect of the Lomaiviti Princess II posed serious risks to the marine environment due to the hazardous substances the ship was carrying. Minister Bulitavu emphasized that Fiji’s ports would not be treated as “dumping grounds” and warned ship owners about the legal ramifications of failing to adhere to environmental regulations. Violators could face substantial penalties, including fines up to $1 million or even imprisonment for up to three years.
Goundar Shipping’s actions have been described as negligent under common law, with the company holding a defined duty of care to safeguard public safety and the marine ecosystem. Despite warnings, the company delayed in addressing the vessel’s condition, leading to the oil spill that has now caused confirmed environmental damage.
A strong government response is underway as the Fiji Ports Corporation Limited has already initiated containment efforts, deploying booms to manage the oil spill and discussing the necessary steps to remove the hazardous vessel entirely. Ministers reiterated the nation’s commitment to improving maritime safety protocols and environmental protection.
This incident follows a pattern of past mishaps involving Goundar Shipping, which has faced scrutiny over its operational standards. However, there remains hope that the ongoing investigations will not only rectify existing issues but also enhance future maritime safety regulations. The involvement of regulatory bodies reflects a determined effort to foster a safer maritime environment, ultimately ensuring that Fiji’s waters are protected for the benefit of the community and its ecosystems.
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