The continued presence of the wrecked Sinu-i-Wasa III vessel in Levuka has emerged as a major concern during the Lomaiviti Provincial Council Meeting held on May 27 and 28.
Levuka District Representative Taniela Tamani raised the issue during council deliberations, highlighting growing frustration among communities over the abandoned vessel, which has remained stranded since the devastation caused by Severe Tropical Cyclone Winston in February 2016.
Tamani said that more than a decade after the cyclone, the vessel remains an eyesore in the historic town and continues to pose environmental, safety and social concerns for nearby residents.
He called on relevant government agencies and stakeholders to work together to find a long-term solution for the removal of the wreck.
The matter has also been discussed at the national level, with authorities acknowledging that the removal process is subject to a number of legal and environmental requirements, including the completion of an Environmental Impact Assessment before any dismantling or removal work can proceed.
Council members stressed that the issue is particularly important given Levuka’s status as Fiji’s first capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. They emphasised the need to safeguard the town’s unique heritage, environment and marine resources for future generations.
The Lomaiviti Provincial Council says it remains committed to ensuring concerns raised by district representatives are formally conveyed to the relevant authorities for action and follow-up.
