An environmental response team is set to convene today to establish a long-term solution for a leak from the sunken MV Suilven that has potentially led to toxic substances entering Suva Harbour. Dr. Sivendra Michael, the permanent secretary for the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, explained that while a temporary fix has been implemented, more work is needed to address the issue permanently.
The ministry is collaborating with various authorities, including the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), Fiji Ports Corporation Ltd, and the Fiji Navy, to tackle the leak and prioritize containment efforts. Dr. Michael noted that the hull of the sunken vessel has been patched by a dive center, but that this is only a short-term measure. The environmental response team is intensely focused on finding a more sustainable solution.
The initial meeting among response authorities was held yesterday, led by MSAF CEO Joeli Cawaki. This collaboration underscores the unified effort to handle the situation effectively. In response to the oil leak, which was first reported by a diver on social media, a pollution patrol boat was deployed to investigate the source of the leak.
The sunken wreck has been located near Davetalevu Passage, roughly 15 to 20 meters from the reef and at a depth of about 18 meters. A thorough assessment of the situation is planned, with the involvement of Dive Centre Fiji.
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change emphasizes its commitment to addressing the environmental impact of such spills, working closely with relevant authorities to resolve the incident.
As this situation unfolds, it highlights the importance of environmental protection and the collaboration between multiple agencies to safeguard marine ecosystems. There is hope that through these concerted efforts, a permanent and effective solution will be found, ensuring the health of Suva Harbour and its surrounding environment for the future.
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