Ashok Transport Pte Limited has been issued a Prohibition Notice and Remedial Orders under the Environment Management Act 2005, along with a penalty of $1,500 in accordance with the Environment Management (Waste Disposal and Recycling) Regulations 2007.
This is after fijivillage News raised the issue to the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change about black oil discharge into a public drain along Jai Ambamma Road in Vatuwaqa.
The penalty was issued by the Ministry after an inspection was conducted by Environmental Inspectors that confirmed the discharge originated from the Ashok Transport Pte Limited yard that is located in the area.
The Ministry says the company has been directed to clean up all oil contamination along the affected drain and within its premises, with all remedial actions to be completed within 14 days.
The Prohibition Notice further requires the immediate cessation of any discharge of oil, waste oil, or lubricants from the premises.
Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr Sivendra Michael reiterates that non-compliance with environmental requirements will not be tolerated.
Dr Michael says non-compliance with waste permit conditions is a serious offence, and where negligence is established, the Ministry will not hesitate to impose penalties and pursue further legal action in accordance with the Environment Management Act.
He says environmental protection is not optional, and businesses must be accountable for the impacts of their operations.
He adds that the Ministry will continue to monitor the site to ensure full compliance with the issued orders.
The Ministry is reminding all businesses, particularly those operating near waterways, of their responsibility to ensure the safe handling, storage, and containment of oil and other hazardous substances.
The Ministry says regular monitoring and compliance inspections will continue in collaboration with relevant authorities as part of ongoing efforts to protect Fiji’s waterways and marine environment.
