The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) is set to remove 34 abandoned vessels from Suva Harbour next month. Joweli Cawaki, the CEO of MSAF, explained that the derelicts would need to be relocated to a deeper section of the water for proper scrapping, as they had previously been taken to Draunibota Bay in Lami but could not be processed due to shallow waters.

Cawaki noted that discussions are ongoing with a Chinese company based in Nausori that has experience in removing abandoned ships in the area. The official removal work is scheduled to commence on January 15, with assistance from that company.

Additionally, MSAF is collaborating with the Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UNESCAP) for a feasibility study focused on the sunken vessels present in Fiji. A local company will conduct this study to evaluate costs and gather significant findings. Cawaki mentioned that they are also in talks with the South Pacific Regional Environment Programme (SPREP) to secure funding, which will become viable only after the completion of the feasibility study.

Cawaki is appealing to landowners in coastal regions for their support in the scrapping initiative. He urged those willing to assist with the removal of these derelict boats to get in touch with MSAF. The scrapping efforts require a deeper ocean area to ensure minimal disruption to marine life.

This initiative not only aims to enhance maritime safety but also to protect the marine environment, heralding a positive step toward ensuring clearer and healthier waters around Fiji. With this concerted effort and community support, the removal of these derelict vessels could pave the way for improved local marine health and safety for all.