Fiji Ports Corporation Limited’s (FPCL) Muaiwalu 2 local wharf has seen an 18 per cent increase in vessel calls throughout in the last five years, from 775 to 916 vessel calls per year.

This according to Chief Executive Officer, Vajira Piyasena said this was attributed to the increase in maritime travel in the north, central and southern division of Fiji.

Mr Piyasena said the increase in the vessel, vehicle, and passenger’s throughout has also contributed to traffic congestion along Tofua Street towards the wharf.

The current location with the red markings to illustrate the proposed project area.

Project
He said these issues coupled with the need to utilize the vacant land beside the wharf and achieve the strategic goals of operating a Suva Inter- Island Terminal Facility, initiated the Muaiwalu 2 Interisland Passenger Terminal Facility Project.

“The project scope includes the construction of a drive through car park, a modern Interisland terminal building accommodating multiple ticking offices, waiting area of over 200 seating capacity with user-pay Wi-Fi, departure gates, food stalls, bank, supermarket, conveniences, etc.

“The project is estimated to cost between $4million to $5million and has been approved by FPCL Management and Board for the conduct of a feasibility study.

Mr Piyasena said subject to the outcome of a feasibility study, stakeholders will be approached for consultation and a detail design will be carried out.

He said physical construction works is projected to begin in 2022.

Feedback: laiseana.nasiga@fijisun.com.fj