Ferry passengers in Fiji are being called upon to report any issues or defects with shipping vessels that could potentially jeopardize their safety. This message, issued by Joeli Cawaki, the chief executive officer of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), comes amidst ongoing concerns regarding the maintenance standards of local vessels.
Cawaki emphasized the necessity of informing MSAF of any defects promptly, highlighting that this enables operators to quickly address safety issues, especially during the peak festive travel period. “Passengers pay fares with the expectation of quality service. Their safety remains paramount,” he asserted.
He mentioned that vessels known for past defects will be closely scrutinized during this busy season. He reiterated the requirement for all vessels to implement a safe ship management system to maintain passenger safety consistently.
In response to inquiries about how MSAF would handle instances where vessels exceed passenger capacity limits, Cawaki revealed that MSAF would pause operations to investigate the cause before allowing the vessel to continue running. “We must understand why the breach occurred and take steps to address it,” he explained.
Acknowledging the financial burden of ship maintenance, he urged operators to perform regular upkeep to prevent significant issues from developing. Additionally, Cawaki encouraged passengers to report any issues related to uncomfortable seating or unsanitary conditions, which have been frequently highlighted in social media complaints.
MSAF remains dedicated to overseeing vessel hygiene and enforcing safety standards to ensure a pleasant and secure environment for all passengers. Furthermore, Cawaki reminded operators of the importance of adhering to established shipping schedules to guarantee timely services.
This proactive approach by the Maritime Safety Authority demonstrates a commitment to enhancing maritime safety and passenger experience, ensuring that everyone can travel with peace of mind during the holiday season.
By engaging passengers in the safety process, MSAF promotes a culture of vigilance, where everyone plays a role in ensuring that maritime travel is secure and enjoyable.
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