Villagers in parts of Kadavu have for years been forced to disembark from vessels using boat ramps, putting their lives at risk, particularly newborn babies, the elderly and other vulnerable passengers.
This concern was raised by Sikeli Delaiono, a villager from Ono in Kadavu, during an interview with fijivillage News.
Delaiono says the situation has recently worsened due to the poor condition of the Vunisea jetty, which he describes as unsafe for passengers.
He says that as a result, passengers are forced to climb over rocks to reach the shore.
According to Delaiono, during special occasions, vessels are often chartered to transport people to the islands.
However, when these vessels dock at villages without proper jetties, passengers are left with no option but to disembark using boat ramps—a situation that becomes especially dangerous during high tides.
Delaiono stresses that the sea is unpredictable and dangerous, warning that lives should not be put at risk for financial reasons, whether by individuals or the government.
He is urging the government to take immediate action and begin constructing proper jetties in villages around Kadavu to ensure passenger safety.
Responding to our questions, Minister for Transport and Infrastructure, Ro Filipe Tuisawau says that jetties for villages in Kadavu and the Lau Group will be constructed once the budget is finalised next year.
He adds that work is also ongoing in other maritime areas.
