Work to remove the first three derelict vessels from Suva Harbour is set to begin after the Derelict Vessel Removal Project Governance Committee approved the next phase of the long-awaited clean-up initiative.
The vessels are the first of 17 identified derelict vessels earmarked for removal under the Captain Johnathan Smith Fund, marking a significant milestone in efforts to restore Fiji’s busiest harbour.
The Governance Committee met last week to finalise preparations and coordinate the next stage of the project, which brings together the Government, maritime agencies and environmental partners.
Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Prime Minister, Dr Lesikimacuata Korovavala, said extensive planning had been necessary before work could commence.
“This has been a long time coming, but we had to ensure the right foundation was laid for such an undertaking to stand on.”
Dr Korovavala said the project also honours the legacy of Captain Johnathan Smith.
“The Captain Johnathan Smith Fund is carrying on the legacy of an esteemed member of our society, in the hope that the future will be a bit brighter for those who watch the sunlight reflecting on the Suva Harbour.”
The meeting follows the completion of an operational agreement outlining how the clean-up will be coordinated between the Government of Fiji, the Joint Maritime Environment Committee, Fiji Ports Corporation Limited, the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, the Waitt Institute and Blue Prosperity Fiji.
Fiji Ports Corporation is leading the operational phase, including overseeing contractors responsible for cleaning and scuttling the vessels in accordance with Fiji’s legal requirements.
Authorities say vessels will only be scuttled after meeting strict environmental and safety standards certified jointly by the Department of Environment and the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji, and only at approved locations.
Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael, said removing the abandoned vessels demonstrates Fiji’s commitment to protecting its marine environment.
“For far too long, these abandoned vessels have posed risks to traditional custodians, marine ecosystems, navigation and public safety, and their removal is helping to restore the ecological integrity.”
The Government will continue to oversee the project through the Joint Maritime Environment Committee, while the Waitt Foundation has contributed US$1 million to establish the Captain Johnathan Smith Fund. Blue Prosperity Fiji is supporting coordination of the initiative as part of Fiji’s broader marine spatial planning and ocean management programme.
