Death of passenger on Interlink's MV Ohana ferry sparks public outcry over safety standards

A tragic incident aboard the Interlink's MV Ohana ferry at the Suva Wharf on Monday has prompted serious concerns regarding passenger safety and emergency preparedness in Fiji’s public transport system.

Police has confirmed that a 58-year-old female passenger reportedly fainted while onboard and was rushed to the hospital and later passed on. 

Witnesses to the incident have raised concerns about the lack of immediate medical assistance, noting that there were no trained first aiders or Occupational Health and Safety officers present to assist the woman in her moment of distress.

According to one passenger who spoke to fijivillage News, the incident caused significant confusion and distress, with no clear emergency response protocol in place.

The witness claimed that despite the seriousness of the situation, the ferry was still allowed to depart Suva Wharf after the woman was pronounced dead.

The passenger further emphasised that the lack of a proper emergency response protocol raises serious concerns about the ferry’s preparedness for medical emergencies. 

In response, Interlink Shipping General Manager Adrial Prasad denied the allegations and confirms that the woman, who was described as elderly, appeared “fine and well” when she boarded the vessel.

Prasad says the vessel was not overcrowded, stating that it adhered to the passenger capacity limits set by the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF). 

Prasad is reassuring the public, stating that all crew members aboard the Interlink Ohana are medically trained to act as first responders.

He clarified that those without certification in first aid are not permitted to work on the ferry.

According to Prasad, a doctor was present on board at the time of the incident and provided medical assistance when the woman collapsed.

He says the doctor suggested that the woman may have suffered a cardiac arrest, as she was pronounced dead shortly after the episode.

Meanwhile, when contacted, MSAF says they are aware of the concerns raised and has the incident reports.

They say that as investigations are still ongoing, they cannot comment further.