A fuel spill reported early this morning has sparked significant environmental concerns in Suva Harbour, raising alarms about potential harm to marine life and the nearby coral reefs. The incident was first detected at approximately 5:30 AM by Reverend James Bhagwan, an environmentalist and advocate for climate change, who was paddleboarding along the Suva waterfront at the time.
Bhagwan alerted the public on social media after witnessing a visible oil slick, which he described as noticeably spreading. His footage, captured during the incident, displays the oil slick extending from the harbour beacon near the China Club area toward Nawanada Reef, a zone recognized for its rich marine biodiversity.
Environmental experts caution that even minor oil spills can lead to severe and lasting effects on marine ecosystems, particularly affecting coral reefs and fish habitats. As of now, the source of the spill has not been identified, and no official announcements have been made regarding efforts for containment or clean-up.
FBC News has reached out to the Ministry of Environment for comments and is currently awaiting a response. The incident emphasizes the ongoing vulnerabilities of marine ecosystems and the importance of prompt action to mitigate environmental damage. Local community members and environmental advocates remain vigilant in hoping for a swift resolution to protect Suva Harbour’s natural resources.
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