THE Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, in partnership with the Fiji Police Force, is strengthening oversight measures to ensure robust environmental safeguards are in place for all future drug destruction activities.
Ministry permanent secretary Dr Sivendra Michael underscored the ministry’s firm stance on environmental integrity in high-risk operations.
“Having an operational environmental management plan (OEMP) must never be an afterthought, especially in processes as sensitive as drug destruction,” Mr Michael said.
“A key environmental risk was identified during the destruction of 4.1 tonnes of methamphetamine in Davuilevu earlier this year, and we responded immediately to rectify the situation.”
He said the concerns arose from smoke emissions caused by the inadequate height of an outlet pipe, an issue that prompted complaints from residents of Nakasi.
“Once the issue was raised by the community, we moved swiftly to advise the team and initiate corrective action,” Mr Michael noted.
“That said, this is a lesson in the importance of planning ahead. We must ensure the right infrastructure is in place before we begin, not after problems arise.”
To manage such situations better in the future, the ministry will ensure environment officers are present at all drug destruction sites.
“Our officers will be on-site to monitor and enforce compliance with air pollution and environmental standards.
“This is a matter of public trust and professional responsibility.”
Dr Michael acknowledged the strong support of the police, noting that the partnership remained critical to ensure operational integrity.
“We’ve had excellent cooperation from the Fiji police, and I commend Commissioner Tudravu for his instrumental leadership.
“He has assured us that environmental standards, including site inspections and OEMPs, will be fully adhered to in all future exercises. Our goal is to ensure that every drug disposal activity meets the highest standards of environmental safety.”
Heavy black smoke is seen during the destruction of methamphetamine containers at the Dignified Crematorium incinerator at Davuilevu in Nausori earlier this year. Picture: JONACANI LALAKOBAU
