MOST nautical charts in Fiji are outdated and require resurvey, says Acting Minister for Defence and National Security Mahendra Reddy.
Speaking during the handing over ceremony of the RFNS Volasiga from the Korean Government in Suva yesterday, Dr Reddy said the $7 million hydrographic vessel would enhance the provision of updated hydrographic data.
He said hydrographic survey was critical for ocean governance such as safety of navigation, protection of the marine environment and national infrastructure.
“Fiji is a maritime nation that is surrounded by the vast Pacific Ocean where more than 80 per cent of its trade and commerce is transported through its sea lanes of communication,” he said.
“The urgent requirement for resurvey and new surveys are priority initiatives for Government given the effects of climate change on sea level rise, coastal inundation of our coasts and waterways and the potential for increased associated economic benefits.
“The state-of-the-art hydrographic vessel RFNS Volasiga ensures that Fiji’s capability in defence and security is enhanced to a modern state where updated and current data will be made available.
“This capability enhancement and the hydrographic data that it can produce will most certainly provide assurances and support to the private sector, intended investors, our maritime sector and the sustainable development of our coastal and island communities.”
Korea’s Vice-Minister for Oceans and Fisheries Kim Yangsoo said the new research vessel would conduct hyrdrographic survey, tides and current observation, survey of sea routes and other surveys in Fiji waters.
