Ministry confirms paint spill into Lautoka sea, warns of strict action

The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has confirmed that the white substance seen flowing into the sea along Marine Drive in Lautoka was water-soluble paint discharged from a CDP Pte Ltd courier truck.

An investigation found that the truck driver washed the vehicle in front of the company’s Lautoka branch, causing paint runoff to enter the stormwater system before discharging into the marine environment.

The Ministry said irresponsible handling or disposal of chemicals is unacceptable, warning that such actions threaten marine life, pollute coastal waters, and undermine public confidence in environmental protection.

CDP Pte Ltd staff in Lautoka were instructed on-site to clean and remove all remaining paint residue from the affected area. The Ministry also issued strict directives prohibiting the washing of trucks or contaminated equipment at that location in future.

A follow-up inspection is scheduled for today to confirm full compliance and ensure corrective measures have been completed.

The Ministry said it will not hesitate to take further enforcement action should any breaches persist.