MSAF pressed on overcrowded boats

Fiji's Maritime Safety Authority (MSAF) faces mounting pressure regarding the persistent issue of passenger overcrowding on inter-island vessels, particularly during peak travel periods. Members of the Standing Committee on Social Affairs have voiced concerns, directly questioning the adequacy of current checks designed to enforce passenger limits.

The committee's focus is on whether existing protocols are sufficient to prevent boats from carrying more passengers than their approved capacity. This scrutiny comes amid fears that overcrowding poses significant safety risks to passengers traveling between the islands. The effectiveness of MSAF's oversight mechanisms is now under the spotlight.

During a recent session, the committee specifically probed MSAF Legal Team Member Tui Kilakila. The questioning aimed to understand the practical application of regulations and the enforcement strategies employed by the authority. The MSAF's response and any proposed solutions to address the overcrowding issue are critical for ensuring maritime safety across Fiji's archipelago.