Ferry passengers are being encouraged to report any potential safety defects on ships to ensure their well-being. Joeli Cawaki, the CEO of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), has made this appeal in light of ongoing concerns regarding the maintenance of vessels.
Cawaki emphasized the critical nature of reporting issues directly to MSAF, which will enable swift remediation by operators and uphold the highest safety standards. This is especially crucial as the festive season approaches, a time when ferry operations typically surge.
“Passengers pay fares with the expectation of quality service. Their safety remains paramount,” Cawaki noted. He mentioned that vessels previously identified with defects will be closely monitored to prevent any incidents.
Additionally, Cawaki highlighted the necessity for every ship to have a safe management system operational, ensuring employee diligence in maintaining public safety at all times. He addressed concerns regarding capacity breaches by stating that MSAF would halt operations to assess and rectify the issues before a vessel could resume service.
While recognizing that ship maintenance incurs considerable costs, he urged operators to conduct regular upkeep to preempt significant issues. Passengers are also encouraged to report inadequate seating or unsanitary conditions, which have been observed on social media platforms.
MSAF is focused on overseeing vessel hygiene and enforcing compliance with safety standards, aiming to provide a healthy and comfortable travel experience for all passengers. Cawaki also reminded operators of the importance of sticking to shipping schedules for efficient pick-ups and drop-offs.
In summary, this proactive approach by MSAF reinforces the message that passenger safety is non-negotiable. By fostering a collaborative effort between authorities, operators, and passengers, the maritime experience can be significantly improved during this busy season.
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