The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has issued a strong warning against overcrowding on vessels, especially as many people are preparing to travel to remote islands and marine areas to celebrate Christmas with their families. MSAF’s CEO Joeli Cawaki emphasized that vessel owners who overload their boats with passengers or cargo will face strict consequences.
Cawaki noted that overloading tends to spike during this festive season. He explained that MSAF issues a service certificate for each vessel detailing the maximum number of passengers allowed. Vessels exceeding this limit will be stopped by MSAF staff at the jetty.
To ensure compliance, MSAF plans to increase its presence at jetties. Cawaki stated that given the heightened movement of travelers and potential congestion, the monitoring efforts will be intensified. The authorities are ready to count the number of individuals on board and confirm passenger and cargo counts in cooperation with ship owners.
This proactive approach aims to safeguard the safety of all passengers, ensuring that everyone has a joyous and secure holiday experience.
Summary: The MSAF has warned vessel owners against overcrowding as the holiday season approaches, emphasizing increased monitoring at jetties to ensure passenger safety.
Leave a comment