GOUNDAR SENT BACKUP VESSEL FOR STRANDED PASSENGERS
Goundar Shipping Limited (GSL) sent another vessel to transport the remaining passengers who were stranded at Nabouwalu Jetty on Monday night. Cars and passengers were boarding the Lomaiviti Princess 8 which was full and resulted in passengers being left at the jetty.
GSL director, George Goundar said he was aware of the incident but did not want to comment.
Stranded families claimed to have made earlier bookings with GSL and were left behind without prior notice.
Katrina Wong, one of the passengers, said her family had made earlier bookings to avoid the hassle during this busy week.
“Our reporting time at Nabouwalu Jetty is 5pm and we arrived on time,” Ms Wong said.
“While at the jetty, we suddenly saw the vessel started moving and leaving some families behind.
“We checked the company ticketing office, but it was locked, and there was no officer or anyone from the company to advise us on what was happening,” Ms Wong claimed. “Later that night we were told that another vessel would be arriving at 11pm to pick us up.
“Because of the curfew, everyone was at the jetty until the other vessel came and took the remaining stranded passengers,” she said.
“We understand that it was a busy week, but shipping companies should cater for all and provide the service that we pay for.”
Consumer Council of Fiji
The Consumer Council of Fiji has warned shipping service providers against overbooking and overcrowding in ships.
A statement released by the council said: “This is well reflected in the complaints received by the Council regarding the services provided by these passenger vessels, which shows the extent of operators’ disregard for traveler’s comfort and care.
“Shipping operators are also being reminded to disclose freight charges and all relevant terms and conditions before selling any ticket.
“Meanwhile, consumers are being prompted to be responsible and check travel dates, charges, terms, and conditions before purchasing shipping tickets and to always keep in mind that the tickets issued by shipping service providers if lost, may not be replaced – creating an unnecessary financial burden and hassle.
“Consumers are also advised to check the shipping companies refund policies before purchasing tickets so that any cancellation or rescheduling of travel dates can be facilitated easily.
“The council continues to work very closely with the Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) and other relevant organisations to ensure compliance by shipping service providers.
“Consumers facing any issues with such companies are urged to call the council on the toll-free 155 or lodge a complaint using the Consumer Council of Fiji mobile app.”