$2M Suva harbour clean-up targets 17 derelict vessels

A major maritime clean-up operation is now underway in Suva Harbour, aiming to remove 17 derelict vessels—some sunken and hazardous—with the help of specialised salvage equipment and international support.

Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services, and Transport, Ro Filipe Tuisawau, confirmed the effort will be a coordinated multi-agency operation involving the Fiji Ports Corporation, Navy, Police, Ministry of Environment, and overseas partners.

“These are not simple removals. Some vessels are underwater and classified as hazardous. We’ll need specialised marine salvage equipment and trained divers to safely extract them,” Mr Tuisawau said.

The clean-up is being funded through a partnership with the Wade Foundation and the U.S. Development for Peace Corps, with close to FJD $2 million allocated to cover logistics, heavy-lifting machinery, environmental safety protocols, and vessel disposal.

While several derelict vessels have been removed from Suva Harbour over the past 18 months, this latest phase targets the most technically challenging wrecks.

“The work has started, but this is a much more technical phase. We are now dealing with wrecks that require international expertise and high-cost removal solutions,” Mr Tuisawau said.

In addition to the clean-up, the government is pushing for long-term change through legal reform.

Cabinet has approved a review of the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji Act to strengthen enforcement, compliance, and penalties to prevent future vessel dumping.

“This is not just about cleaning Suva Harbour. It’s about transforming how we manage our maritime sector across Fiji,” the Minister added.

The clean-up is expected to run into 2026, with plans to expand efforts to other affected coastal areas around the country.