South Sea Towage Limited (SSTL) has initiated preparatory actions and signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Pacific Marine Group to tackle the project of removing abandoned ships that have become a significant eyesore in Suva Harbour.
Unit Trust of Fiji, which owns a 60 percent stake in SSTL, is overseeing the project. General Manager Sakiusa Bolaira highlighted the urgency of the task, stating that discussions around the timeline emphasize the need to start the work by January 2025 at the latest. The plan involves the removal of approximately 80 grounded vessels from the harbour, which Bolaira believes requires immediate rehabilitation.
Bolaira noted the current state of the harbour is visually distressing, affecting the ability of larger vessels to dock due to existing hazards. He indicated collaboration with Fiji Ports Corporation and the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji is ongoing to facilitate the removal process.
SSTL Chairperson Himmat Lodhia described the signing of the agreement as a demonstration of their collective commitment to cleaning up Suva’s Harbour. He noted that the initiative is not limited to Suva but will expand to other locations in Fiji as well. This issue has been a longstanding topic among leaders, and SSTL, along with Pacific Marine Group, is prepared to take action.
Additionally, Lodhia revealed plans to extend their operations to the Solomon Islands in November, where they hope to assist with the Solomon Islands Port, building on their existing services in Vanuatu and Nauru. He expressed optimism that this MOU will benefit both the companies involved and Fiji as a whole, emphasizing their commitment to environmental stewardship.
Andrew Morris, from Pacific Marine Business Development – South Pacific, stated that Pacific Marine Group is recognized as a leader in maritime contracting and commercial diving. With a primary base in Townsville, PMG provides a wide range of services including marine construction, dredging, towing, salvage, and artificial reef installation, all conducted with a high standard of professionalism and adherence to relevant legislation.
Furthermore, South Sea Towage Limited maintains a reviewable term contract with Fiji Ports Corporation Ltd, granting it exclusive rights to manage all movement and related services within designated ports including Suva, Lautoka, Malau, and Warik.