Concerns over terminal location

Recently, concerns have been raised regarding the safety of the Nabouwalu jetty, primarily due to its seaside location, which presents potential safety hazards. Given the inherent risks associated with coastal development, the safety of the jetty's location has been widely questioned.

Permanent Secretary for Environment, Dr. Sivendra Michael, stated that any development project, including the Nabouwalu jetty, needs to undergo a rigorous screening process. "Any project relating to development, in whatever form, must go through the Environment Impact Assessment screening process," he said.

However, Dr. Michael indicated that he was not aware of whether the appropriate procedures had been followed for this particular jetty. "I don't think I can comment on the specific case. I need to go back and check the files and see what decisions were made under the Environment Management Act."

He pointed out that if the relevant processes were not followed, the Director of Environment, as well as the relevant municipal council, have the authority to issue stop-work orders or prohibition notices. "Any form of development needs to go through this process."