The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has announced that the white substance observed flowing into the sea along Marine Drive in Lautoka was water-soluble paint. This incident occurred when paint was discharged from a courier truck belonging to CDP Pte Ltd after the driver washed the vehicle outside the company’s Lautoka branch. The runoff subsequently made its way into the stormwater system, eventually contaminating the marine environment.
The Ministry emphasized that this incident serves as a crucial reminder of how negligent handling of chemicals can significantly impact coastal waters. The introduction of paint or any chemicals into the ocean poses a threat to marine life, disrupts ecosystems, and undermines public confidence in environmental protections. For the residents of Lautoka who frequent the foreshore, this situation illustrates the fragility of their environment in the face of seemingly minor carelessness.
In response to the incident, Ministry officials directed CDP staff to remove the remaining paint from the affected area. Furthermore, the company has been explicitly warned that truck washing or cleaning of any contaminated equipment is prohibited at that location going forward. A follow-up inspection is scheduled for the following day to ensure compliance with these directives.
The Ministry also made it clear that it is prepared to implement stronger enforcement measures should similar infractions occur in the future. Protecting coastal ecosystems is a shared responsibility, and the Ministry stresses the importance of proper management of chemicals and waste to safeguard the environment.
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