The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has identified several persistent issues affecting the operations of shipping vessels in Suva, notably those involving Goundar Shipping Limited. These concerns were discussed during a meeting held at Walu Bay, Suva, attended by MSAF and other shipping industry representatives.
One major issue highlighted by MSAF’s Chief Executive Officer, Joweli Cawaki, is the abuse of office by some employees at Goundar Shipping. It has been reported that certain staff members have been selling tickets to their relatives covertly and misappropriating the payments, which has led to instances of passenger overloading during boarding. Mr. Cawaki acknowledged that this problem has been persistent and challenging to resolve. He noted the difficulty in finding trustworthy employees when financial transactions are involved.
Furthermore, the public’s behavior also plays a role in these overloading issues. Mr. Cawaki explained that when passengers miss their trips after making payments, they often seek to rebook without cancellation, leading to longer waiting lists and increased pressure on transport options.
While MSAF faces scrutiny when vessels are seized for overloading, Mr. Cawaki emphasized that safety must remain the priority in maritime travel. To improve the situation, MSAF is implementing new protocols, including having an additional ship on standby to accommodate excess passenger numbers. For example, in the case that a vessel traveling from Suva to Gau, Koro, Savusavu, and Taveuni becomes overloaded, passengers heading to Gau and Koro may be required to take the next available boat.
Overall, MSAF is committed to ensuring that shipping companies adhere to the established regulations governing sea travel, in an effort to enhance safety for all passengers.
This initiative not only aims to resolve current issues but also serves as a reminder of the importance of compliance and accountability in the maritime industry, fostering a safer environment for travelers and supporting the overall integrity of Fiji’s shipping sector.
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