Port Authority Issues Ultimatum to ‘Reckless’ Over Safety Concerns

The Mauritius Ports Authority (MPA) has issued a stern warning to the owners and operators of the fishing vessel ‘Reckless,’ demanding its removal from Port-Louis within 15 days. The ship was originally granted access to the port on 30 November 2017 for the purpose of unloading fish and preparing for a fishing campaign.

However, it has since remained idle, tethered at the Trou-Fanfaron fishing port, and is now regarded as a significant threat to port safety.

Despite a formal notification issued under section 32(5) of the Ports Act of 1998, there has been no action taken by the owner, captain, agent, or any representative to remove or rectify the situation regarding the ‘Reckless.’

The continued presence of the vessel not only poses risks to the safety of the port but also obstructs the passage of other ships.

The MPA has now set a clear deadline: the responsible parties must take all reasonable measures within the next 15 days to either remove the vessel from the port or address its current status.

Moreover, they are required to settle any accumulated port fees during this period.

Failure to comply with this ultimatum may lead to severe consequences.

As Acting Port Master Kavidev Neewoor stated in a communiqué issued on 4th March, should the responsible parties ignore this notice, they will commit an offence under the law, potentially facing a hefty fine of up to Rs 100,000 and a maximum of two years’ imprisonment.

The time for action is now, as the clock ticks down on the fate of the ‘Reckless’ and its stakeholders.

Source: Le Mauricien