A recent oil spill off Ifira Wharf in Port Vila has triggered serious environmental concerns and renewed calls from ship owners and residents for the government to develop a proper maritime slipway facility in Vanuatu.

The spill, which has affected marine life and contaminated white sand beaches along the harbor, is the latest in a string of similar incidents reported over the past year. Residents living along the shoreline say the ongoing pollution is ruining key recreational and fishing areas and threatening livelihoods.

“This has been going on since last year. We’ve had oil spills from several of our vessels. It’s time for the government to look seriously into building a slipway that can handle ships over 100 to even 300 tons,” said Mr. Nilwo, a concerned ship owner and resident.

He added that without local infrastructure, many ship owners are forced to send their vessels overseas for servicing—an expensive and often unrealistic option.

“If we work together—government and ship owners—we can avoid issues like this that damage our environment,” he said.

Impact on Communities

The spill has had a direct impact on communities living along the harbor, especially in areas like Ifira and Woraloa. According to residents, oil has not only stained beaches but also affected marine resources that locals depend on.

“This oil spill is hurting the Ifira community. It’s damaging the beach and affecting the fish and marine life. We need action now to stop this from happening again,” Mr. Nilwo stressed.

One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed frustration over the lack of progress in developing a functional slipway outside the harbor.

“Some of these small boats, even ones 3 to 4 meters long, can’t be pulled out for maintenance. Just go past Iririki, to Number Two Point—you’ll see broken boats left floating. We need proper facilities,” the resident said.

Fishing Restrictions

Local fishermen have also been impacted, with many now forced to travel further offshore to find clean, uncontaminated fishing zones. Residents say fishing inside the harbor has become too risky due to pollution.