Two fuel stations run dry in Taveuni

Two of Taveuni's three fuel stations have run dry, sparking long queues, threatening bus services and disrupting businesses across the island.

The only remaining fuel station in Matei has limited supplies, with residents lining up to buy fuel as fears grow that stocks will soon be exhausted.

The shortage follows the arrival of the Government-arranged vessel LCT Saint Mary, operated by Venu Shipping Ltd, in Taveuni on July 2 carrying groceries but no fuel.

Interlink Shipping confirmed its vessel, MV Ohana, departed for Savusavu and Taveuni on July 4 carrying essential supplies, including food, frozen goods and hardware items.

The company said space had been available on board for fuel trucks. It had booked two fuel trucks for Legend Fuel, but the fuel companies cancelled at the last minute and did not load them onto the vessel.

The cancellations prevented fuel from reaching Taveuni.

A fuel station owner, who requested anonymity, confirmed that two service stations had run out of fuel.

Taveuni Buses operations manager Sami Prakash said there was still no indication of when fuel supplies would arrive.

"Maybe the fuel for this week will not last and we may have to hold our bus services," Mr Prakash said.

Resident Abhishek Sapra said the shortage was affecting students, businesses and daily life on the island.

"Many people on the island need diesel to run their businesses, especially resorts," Mr Sapra said.

He said residents felt neglected and believed their concerns needed to be heard.

Mr Sapra said tourism operators were already facing difficulties, with some unable to collect guests and forced to hire vehicles instead.

He added that some tourists, who had paid thousands of dollars for activities such as diving, were also being affected, with reports that fuel supplies could last only another two days.

"Whatever the issues are with Government, Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF), and private shipping companies, they are already affecting businesses and families who rely on this income," he said.

Earlier, Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport Ro Filipe Tuisawau said discussions were continuing to resolve shipping issues on the Savusavu–Taveuni route.

"After my meetings within MSAF and with Ministry officials and liaison with operators over the last three days, we continue to progress towards resolutions on the Savusavu–Taveuni shipping issue and service resumption," he said.

"My apologies to members of the public, especially those in Taveuni, and thank you for your patience."

Attempts to obtain further comment from the Minister since Friday were unsuccessful despite repeated calls and messages after the issue was raised.