A total of 245 passengers were successfully rescued from the Lomaiviti Princess VII, a vessel operated by Goundar Shipping Limited, after it ran aground near Moala Island in the Lau Group. The incident occurred when the ship collided with the Cakova Reef.
The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) confirmed that they implemented emergency response measures and collaborated with search and rescue teams to ensure the safety of everyone on board. Thanks to swift action, all passengers have been safely transferred to another vessel dispatched by Goundar Shipping Limited. The company also provided lifesaving equipment, including life jackets, for the passengers shortly after the grounding.
While the passengers are now safe, the 33 crew members remain on the stranded vessel as preparations for a salvage operation are underway. MSAF is committed to ensuring their safety during this process, and they have assured the public that there has been no damage to the hull of the vessel, with no evidence of water entry reported.
This incident highlights the efficiency and coordination of emergency response teams in ensuring the safety of those in distress, demonstrating a successful handling of what could have been a far more serious situation. The quick mobilization of resources not only ensured the welfare of the passengers but also the crew, showcasing a positive example of maritime safety protocols in action.
In summary, although the grounding of the Lomaiviti Princess VII posed challenges, the effective response from Goundar Shipping Limited and MSAF ensured that all passengers were safely rescued, providing a hopeful outlook for the ongoing operations concerning the crew and vessel recovery.
Leave a comment