The State is challenging the Environmental Tribunal’s recent ruling that lifted a previous order stopping Great Han International from continuing its apartment construction project on Princes Road in Suva. Last year, Tribunal Magistrate Charles Ratakele found that the Environment Act 2005 did not clearly mandate the submission of a secondary Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) after an initial report was approved.
The tribunal’s decision recognized both the Suva City Council and the Ministry of Environment as competent “approving authorities.” Under its ruling, Great Han International was permitted to continue construction of two of its buildings located in Tamavua.
During proceedings in the High Court, the director of Environment and the Office of the Attorney-General filed an appeal against the tribunal’s decision and sought an interim stay on construction work pending the outcome of their appeal. The court has allowed Great Han’s attorney, Feizal Younas Haniff, 28 days to respond to the application for a stay. The case is scheduled to resume on June 11.
This legal dispute highlights the complexity surrounding development projects and the regulatory environment. It underscores the necessity for clearer guidelines within the Environment Management Act to enhance the balance between fostering development and ensuring environmental protection. There is hope that ongoing discussions may lead to improved regulations, benefiting both developers and the ecosystem.
The ruling not only allows Great Han to proceed but also indicates potential progress in refining environmental regulations, ensuring a balance that satisfies developmental needs without compromising environmental integrity.
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