Passengers aboard the Lady Daya faced an unsettling situation when they were unexpectedly told to leave the ship at Narayan Jetty in Walu Bay, Suva, leaving them stranded overnight. Travelers from the Western Division voiced their frustrations as they found themselves without food, shelter, or any communication regarding the ship’s next schedule.
After a night spent at the wharf since 8 PM, many passengers expressed discontent over their treatment during the ordeal. Among them was 79-year-old Ratu Ilitomasi Verenakadavu, who lamented sleeping on a wooden chair without any prior accommodation arrangements made for them. “We didn’t know where to go. Many of us had to sleep on the ground with no proper arrangements made for us,” he shared.
To compound their hardships, most travelers left essential belongings on the Lady Daya, which departed for another island shortly after they disembarked. This experience has ignited calls from the affected passengers for authorities to ensure that such incidents do not happen again in the future.
Efforts made by Fiji One News to reach Goundar Shipping for clarification have, as of yet, gone unanswered.
While the incident was unfortunate, it highlights the need for improved communication and contingency planning in maritime travel, ensuring passengers’ safety and comfort in unforeseen circumstances. With the right response from the authorities, it is possible for such an incident to prompt enhancements in service quality, ultimately benefiting future travelers.
In summary, the passengers of the Lady Daya experienced a distressing night due to their unexpected disembarkation, raising significant concerns about communication and accommodation for travelers. Moving forward, it is crucial for shipping companies and relevant authorities to take lessons from this incident to prevent recurrence and enhance overall passenger experiences.
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