The Beqa Island Nawamati Point Lighthouse, an essential navigational resource for maritime vessels, is poised for refurbishment following years of decline. The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has entered into a contract worth $200,000 with Dive Centre (Fiji) Pte Limited to carry out the necessary restoration work. The contract was finalized yesterday with MSAF’s Chief Executive Officer, Joweli Cawaki, and Dive Centre’s Director, Charles Julian, present for the signing.
Scheduled to take approximately 12 weeks, the refurbishment is part of a broader initiative led by MSAF to enhance Fiji’s maritime safety and infrastructure. This lighthouse, situated on Beqa Island, has faced neglect over time, which has impeded its functionality. However, this upgrade will restore the lighthouse to operational status, ensuring it continues to safely guide vessels navigating through the region.
In a related effort to improve maritime safety across the nation, MSAF is also implementing assessments of various jetties and facilities to address safety concerns, including lighting inadequacies noted by Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau. These proactive measures highlight the government’s commitment to not only uplift maritime infrastructure but also foster economic growth through better safety standards.
With the upgrade of the Nawamati Point Lighthouse and surrounding maritime facilities, there is optimism about the positive impact these efforts will have on enhancing local and international shipping safety, thereby securing Fiji’s standing in global maritime operations.
These initiatives underscore a collective vision for a safer and more efficient maritime environment in Fiji, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable development and increased maritime safety awareness among local communities and stakeholders.
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