The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has announced that the removal of two derelict bauxite vessels from the Naiviqiri jetty in Bua will soon be underway. Joeli Cawaki, the Chief Executive of MSAF, provided local media with an update, highlighting the priority removal of these vessels due to their potential safety hazards and environmental threats to the surrounding fishing areas. These fishing grounds are vital to the livelihoods of several coastal communities in Naiviqiri, making the removal of the vessels an urgent matter for both ecological and economic reasons.
The vessels, which were previously used to transport bauxite from mining operations in Nawailevu, Bua, have been abandoned at the jetty since mining activities in the region ceased. The cessation of mining left the vessels without a purpose, and their prolonged presence has raised concerns among local authorities and environmental groups. While MSAF has been fully aware of the situation, the process of removing the vessels involves certain administrative and logistical steps that have delayed immediate action. However, Cawaki confirmed that these steps are nearing completion, and the removal process will commence shortly.
In a statement to the media, MSAF emphasized that the removal of the derelict ships is part of a broader initiative to address the issue of abandoned vessels throughout Fiji’s waters. “The two ships in Naiviqiri will be removed; they are on our list, and this applies to all other derelict vessels around Fiji. We will begin in Suva, but the work will eventually extend to other parts of Fiji,” MSAF stated. This phased approach is designed to tackle the issue on a national scale, ensuring that maritime safety and environmental protection are prioritized across all regions.
The safety and environmental risks posed by these abandoned vessels are significant. Derelict ships can deteriorate over time, causing hazardous materials such as fuel, chemicals, and waste to leak into the surrounding waters. This can have devastating effects on marine life and fisheries, which are critical to the food security and economic well-being of coastal communities. In Naiviqiri, where fishing is a major source of livelihood, any contamination of the waters could result in long-term harm to both the environment and the local economy.
The government has also discussed efforts to remove the vessels. Minister for Mineral Resources, Filimoni Vosarogo, previously stated that the removal of these vessels should have already occurred. However, he acknowledged the delay in the process and noted that he has not yet received full details regarding the responsible company’s plan to remove the ships. Vosarogo also expressed his intention to follow up with the vessel owners to expedite the removal process. The minister’s comments highlight the ongoing collaboration between MSAF, government authorities, and the private sector to resolve the issue.
The delay in removing the vessels has been a source of frustration for local residents, who depend on the health of the nearby fishing grounds for their livelihoods. Many have voiced concerns that the longer the ships remain at the jetty, the greater the risk of environmental damage. The coastal communities have urged the relevant authorities to expedite the removal process, stressing the importance of safeguarding both their natural resources and economic stability.
Looking forward, the removal of the vessels in Naiviqiri is expected to set a precedent for similar operations across Fiji. MSAF’s broader strategy involves identifying and removing abandoned vessels from various locations throughout the country, starting with Suva and gradually extending to other affected areas. The successful removal of these ships will not only mitigate immediate environmental risks but will also demonstrate Fiji’s commitment to maintaining safe and sustainable maritime practices.
In conclusion, the removal of the derelict bauxite vessels from the Naiviqiri jetty represents a critical step in protecting Fiji’s marine environment and supporting the livelihoods of coastal communities. With MSAF and government authorities working together to address the issue, the hope is that similar operations across Fiji will follow suit, ensuring that the country’s waters remain safe and clean for future generations. As the removal process begins, all eyes will be on Naiviqiri as a model for successful intervention in addressing abandoned vessels and safeguarding maritime safety.
