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Fiji Time: 8:42 PM on Friday 24 May

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Plea for beacons

Luke Rawalai
Tuesday, October 23, 2012

MORE beacons are needed in Buca Bay waters to mark reefs along the passage from Taveuni to Natuvu.

Ferry operators who provide services along the route have raised concerns about the difficulties they face when manoeuvring their boats into Buca Bay.

Ferry owner Martha Prasad said two ferries, the Karamal and the La Venture, recently ran aground on a reef as a result of the absence of beacons.

"We fear for the safety of our passengers, especially while travelling along Buca Bay," said Ms Prasad.

"We have difficulties manoeuvring boats particularly during bad weather and the absence of beacons has made it even more difficult.

"With new captains who operate along this route, they go through a lot as sailing here needs a lot of experience."

There's been no comment from the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji because CEO Neal Slack is out of the country.