Concerns grow over marine safety after alleged ferry waste discharge in Savusavu Bay

Serious concerns have been raised over the protection of Fiji’s marine environment after Interlink passenger ferry, MV Ohana, was allegedly observed discharging waste — including what appeared to be sewage and toilet paper — into Savusavu Bay while docking, leaving debris floating in the water.

A witness to this incident told fijivillage News that the Savusavu Bay is relied upon by local communities for fishing, tourism and recreation.

She says discharging untreated waste in these waters poses significant environmental and public health risks and undermines Fiji’s environmental protections.

Permanent Secretary for Environment and Climate Change Dr Sivendra Michael confirmed to fijivillage News that they are aware of the allegations and have launched a formal investigation.

Dr Michael has also confirmed that they have received a complaint from a member of the public and are currently reviewing video footage of the alleged discharge.

Citing Section 35(1) of the Environment Management Act 2005, Dr Michael says if the allegations are confirmed, this would constitute a breach of Fiji’s environmental laws. 

He says Section 35(1) of the Environment Management Act 2005 expressly prohibits the discharge of watse or pollutants into Fiji's waters.

He adds that any confirmed release of sewage or untreated wastewater would be unlawful and subject to enforcement action.

Dr Michael says investigators are examining the vessel’s environmental permits, onboard waste management systems and compliance history, while coordinating with other regulatory authorities.

Dr Michael says enforcement measures may include Non-Compliance Notices or Prohibition Notices to prevent further environmental harm, alongside other penalties available under the law.

Meanwhile, when questioned, Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) confirmed that they are aware of the concerns and have received incident reports relating to the MV Ohana.

However, the authority says it cannot comment further while investigations are ongoing.

Dr Michael adds that water quality testing has not yet been conducted, as accredited laboratories are closed during the festive period, but he says the need for sampling will be assessed once services resume and findings will be communicated publicly in line with standard procedures.

Notably, the Ministry says it has not previously received complaints involving sewage or wastewater discharge from Interlink passenger vessels, raising wider questions about monitoring, reporting and compliance among commercial operators.

He reiterated that ferry operators in Fiji are legally required to maintain functional wastewater management systems and to manage sewage strictly in accordance with approved permits and national standards.