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In a response to a request by Cabinet to assist in the cleaning up of the Nuku’alofa waterfront, the Ports Authority Tonga commenced the cleaning operation on 21^st February and will continue until all the vessels have been removed.

This complex operation involves the removing of old abandoned vessels, laid up vessels and wreckages stranded on the reef of Nuku’alofa.

On 21st February, Ports Authority Tonga dismantled and sunk the MV. Waimanu and MV. Marie Princess, followed by the MV. Takuo and MV. Toko 5 on 28th February at the North West of Hakaumama‘o and approximately 30 miles North North East of ‘Atata Island (latitude 20.58.3 longitude 175 13.4 west)

The General Manager of Ports Authority Tonga, Mosese Lavemai said that, "PAT is happy to assist Government and be a part of the beautification process for the upcoming Coronation in July."

"The cleaning up and maintenance of the port of Nuku’alofa is our responsibility, and I am pleased that this Government administration has endorsed the process which we have for many years attempted to enforce but to no avail because of legal issues and unpaid tariffs by the vessel owners," he further added.

The process involving heavy machinery is solely funded and provided by the Ports Authority, which is expected to cost more than TOP $200,000.

ENDS

 Issued by the; Ports Authority Tonga, Nuku’alofa, TONGA. | B.O. Box 144, Vuna Road, Nuku’alofa, Kingdom of Tonga

CONTACT: Tel: (+676)23 168 | Fax: (+676)24 267 | Visit us on our website: www.portsauthoritytonga.com