Walu Bay shut down after fuel leak sparks emergency response

Walu Bay in Suva has been completely shut down until further notice following a fuel leak at the PetroOceania terminal, which triggered a major emergency operation and renewed safety concerns in the industrial hub.

The incident, which occurred early this morning, led to the closure of key roads including Syria Street and Argo Street after fuel was discovered leaking from a storage tank along Foster Road.

Police also blocked entry points to Walu Bay from Suva and Lami as a precautionary measure.

The National Fire Authority (NFA) confirmed its crews were deployed at first light to contain the spill and prevent any risk of fire or explosion.

Acting NFA chief executive officer Joel Israel said public safety remains the top priority.

“Our teams are on site working to contain the spill. The road closures will remain in place until the area is safe,” Mr Israel said.

PetroOceania chief executive officer James Marryatt said the leak was detected around 6.30am.

“We identified a small leak in one of the fuel tanks and immediately activated our emergency response procedures,” he said.

He said fuel from the affected tank is being safely drained into a connected fuel truck using underground pipes. Repairs will only begin once fuel levels are reduced to a safe level.

A security guard in the area said he noticed an unusual smell several hours earlier.

“At about 2.30 in the morning, I smelled benzene, but it was different from the normal smell,” he said. “I was afraid because it didn’t feel right.”

Liquid was later seen leaking from the tank after daylight.

Police officers remain on standby to assist NFA crews and manage traffic. Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations Kasiano Vusonilawe has urged the public to cooperate with authorities and avoid the area.

The incident has raised fresh concerns as this is the second fuel-related incident reported in Walu Bay, following a similar case involving Mobil Oil Fiji in 2013. No injuries were reported then.

Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the latest leak. Authorities say updates will be provided once the situation is fully stabilised and roads are reopened.