The number of abandoned and rusting vessels cluttering Suva Harbour is gradually decreasing as Government continues its derelict vessel removal programme.

Speaking in Parliament today, Minister for Information, Environment and Climate Change Hon. Lynda Tabuya said the number of derelict vessels in the harbour has been reduced from 44 in 2024 to 24 following ongoing clean-up operations.

Tabuya said the first phase of the programme commenced in December last year, focusing on abandoned vessels within Suva Harbour with financial support of USD$1 million from the Waitt Foundation.

According to the Minister, 13 vessels were removed during 2025, while a further seven have been cleared since January this year.

The operation included six vessels that were restored to working condition and removed from Suva Port boundaries. One additional vessel was safely scuttled at designated coordinates approved by the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji.