The Environment Tribunal has lifted its order halting Great Han International Company Ltd’s apartment construction project on Princes Road in Suva. The tribunal determined that the Environment Management Act 2005 does not provide clear requirements necessary for developers to submit an additional Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) report beyond an already approved initial EIA.
Tribunal Chairman Charles Ratakale issued this ruling on Thursday, allowing the project to move forward. He clarified that both the Suva City Council and the Ministry of Environment are recognized as valid “approving authorities” for this type of development.
Mr. Ratakale highlighted issues related to a technical group’s evaluation of the Construction Environment Management Plan (CEMP) and the Operational Environment Management Plan (OEMP) pertinent to the project. He noted that the technical group had deemed the updated CEMP and OEMP unsatisfactory, but their formation and authority for reviewing these documents were not properly established.
This situation underscores the intricate relationship between development and environmental regulations, reinforcing the necessity for comprehensive environmental assessments—even for projects that may not appear to require additional EIAs.
The tribunal ultimately supported Great Han’s plans to continue construction, particularly of Buildings 1 and 2, stating that the evidence and arguments presented by the company were more convincing than those from the Ministry of Environment.
Additionally, the tribunal revoked a stop work order that had been issued to Great Han on September 23, 2024.
Additional Commentary: This decision indicates a careful consideration of environmental protection alongside developmental needs. By fostering an atmosphere where developers can proceed under regulated guidelines, it can help ensure that future construction projects are both economically beneficial and environmentally sound.
Summary: The Environment Tribunal has allowed Great Han International to proceed with their construction project in Suva after clarifying the lack of requirements for additional environmental assessments. This decision supports the balance between development and environmental concerns, highlighting the complexities involved in regulatory processes.
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