The Ministry of Public Works is pressing the committee focused on the removal of derelict vessels to intensify their activities over the next year. Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau has outlined a priority list that includes two abandoned bauxite vessels located at the Naiviqiri jetty in Bua. Some of these stranded ships will either be scuttled or dismantled, as many have been left unattended for over three decades.
Tuisawau noted the collaboration with UN agencies and other development partners, emphasizing the urgency of the matter considering the environmental risks posed by neglected vessels in areas like Suva Harbour. “We are taking action now, as these wrecks have been neglected for 20 to 30 years, and we need to resolve this issue promptly,” he stated.
Removing these derelict vessels is a complex task involving safe oil extraction and navigating challenging conditions, such as strong currents and partially submerged ships. Despite these obstacles, Tuisawau has reiterated the necessity for quick and effective action to protect marine ecosystems and restore affected areas.
This initiative aligns with previous efforts by the Marine Environment Joint Committee, which successfully removed eight derelict vessels from Suva Harbour as of December 2023, reducing the total number from 44 to 30. Their actions not only serve to enhance maritime safety but also contribute positively to the environmental health of Fiji’s waters. Ongoing collaborative efforts hint at a hopeful outcome in maintaining a cleaner and more navigable harbour, vital for both tourism and local fishing industries.
Such robust action reflects the government’s commitment to preserving Fiji’s rich marine ecosystem while ensuring that derelict ships do not compromise the beauty and safety of its waters.
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