The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has identified several persistent issues within the operations of shipping vessels in Suva, particularly those related to Goundar Shipping Limited. These concerns were highlighted during a recent meeting held at Walu Bay, where MSAF and other shipping companies convened to address operational challenges.
One significant issue is the reported abuse of office among some Goundar Shipping staff, who have been discreetly selling tickets to family members and misappropriating the payments. This unethical behavior has contributed to the overcrowding of passengers during embarkation times, which is a matter of ongoing concern for MSAF. CEO Joweli Cawaki emphasized the difficulty in finding reliable personnel to manage financial transactions responsibly.
He noted the role of the public in exacerbating the situation, as some passengers choose to change their travel plans after purchasing tickets, leading to longer waiting lists. MSAF has faced criticism from the public for taking vessels out of service due to overloading; however, it is their responsibility to ensure safety on all vessels.
To combat these issues, Mr. Cawaki announced plans to have an additional ship ready to assist during busy travel periods. For example, if a vessel operating on the route from Suva to Gau, Koro, Savusavu, and Taveuni becomes overloaded, passengers traveling to Gau and Koro would be transferred to another boat to ensure safe travel for all.
In moving forward, MSAF is committed to enforcing compliance with maritime regulations and enhancing the safety and efficiency of sea travel in Fiji.
This situation presents an opportunity for reform within the shipping industry, aiming to improve safety standards and operational integrity. By addressing these loopholes, MSAF can foster a safer and more reliable travel experience for all passengers.
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