Fiji’s Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Mosese Bulitavu, has condemned Goundar Shipping Ltd for violating multiple maritime safety and environmental laws, particularly in relation to their abandoned vessel, the Lomaiviti Princess II. This vessel, which has not been operational since 2019, has raised serious concerns following an oil spill in Suva Harbour—a situation described as a “gross lapse” by the Joint Maritime Environment Committee (JMEC).
Minister Bulitavu made it clear that Fiji’s waters and ports are not to be treated as dumping grounds, emphasizing there are no exemptions when it comes to environmental protection. He outlined that Goundar Shipping’s failure to act on removal directives from Fiji Ports Corporation Ltd (FPCL) had placed both public safety and the marine ecosystem at risk. The FPCL took action to prevent a catastrophic capsize by towing the ship to anchorage as part of regulations that prioritize navigational safety.
In response to the spill, FPCL deployed containment booms, and further cleanup efforts, including underwater inspections, are expected to take between four to eight weeks. Minister for Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, has ordered a formal inquiry into the incident, signifying the government’s commitment to improving maritime practices and safety measures.
The Lomaiviti Princess II’s neglect mirrors prior issues with Goundar Shipping, which has faced scrutiny over its operational standards. However, there is a positive outlook that ongoing investigations and heightened regulatory measures could lead to significant improvements in Fiji’s maritime safety protocols moving forward. These efforts reflect a broader commitment to protecting the environment and ensuring safe navigation for the community and its ecosystems.
Overall, as authorities tackle these challenges, there is hope that their decisive actions will pave the way for better management of maritime safety and environmental stewardship in Fiji’s waters.
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