Fiji’s Maritime Authority to remove abandoned bauxite vessels from Naiviqiri Jetty

The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) has confirmed that the removal of two derelict bauxite vessels from the Naiviqiri jetty in Bua is set to take place soon. MSAF Chief Executive Joeli Cawaki shared this update with FBC News, noting that the vessels are among those prioritised for removal due to safety concerns and potential environmental risks to the nearby fishing grounds, which support several coastal villages in Naiviqiri.

The ships, formerly used to transport bauxite, have been abandoned at the jetty since mining operations ceased in Nawailevu, Bua. While MSAF is fully aware of the situation, some final steps still need to be completed before removing the vessels.

"The two ships in Naiviqiri will be removed; it is in our lists, so this also applies to all other derelict vessels around Fiji. We will begin in Suva, but surely the work will also reach other parts of Fiji," said MSAF.

Minister for Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo previously noted that a removal process should have already taken place. However, he has not received full details regarding the company's plans to remove the two vessels. Vosarogo also mentioned that he would follow up with the vessel owners to discuss their removal plans and emphasise the urgency of the process.