The recent drifting of two ships from Suva Harbour to Mosquito Island has been linked to strong winds that have impacted the region over the past few weeks. Joeli Cawaki, CEO of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), emphasized that ship owners must take accountability for the safety of their vessels.
Cawaki stated that a joint committee has been established between MSAF and the Fiji Ports Corporation Ltd (FPCL) to assess all vessels in the harbour. “We will start from Suva Harbour and then proceed to the West and the rest of Fiji,” he noted.
The agency is currently in communication with ship owners and their representatives to facilitate the removal of the drifting vessels. If the owners fail to take action, MSAF will intervene to have the vessels removed, following the sending of formal notices to the owners.
A meeting is set for next week between MSAF and FPCL to further discuss the congestion of vessels in the harbour. Cawaki remarked on the adverse weather in Suva over the last few weeks, which included strong winds and rain that contributed to the movement of the vessels. He highlighted the need for cooperation with vessel owners, acknowledging that while the cost of removal may be significant, the ultimate responsibility lies with the owners.