TULELE

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Deteriorating ferry raised concerns in Bougainville

The long-standing issue of the deteriorating 'Tulele' at the Buka Wharf in Bougainville has once again resurfaced in the Bougainville House of Representatives, raising serious concerns over safety and accountability. The vessel, which was brought into Bougainville with the intention of servicing Nissan and the Atolls constituencies, is now visibly tilting and deteriorating in the Buka Passage. Members have warned it could become an environmental and maritime disaster if not urgently removed. The 'Tulele' was purchased by the previous Autonomous Bougainville Government for K1 million from Korea, despite its original value of K9 million. It was meant to boost sea transport in remote areas. However, the National Maritime Safety Authority (NMSA) deemed the ship unseaworthy shortly after its arrival and grounded it. The vessel has remained docked since, sinking slowly and accumulating more than K1 million in berthing fees. The ownership company, Bou & Ko (a joint Bougainville-Korea venture), has failed to take responsibility for the vessel’s condition or its removal. The issue has drawn in multiple agencies, including NMSA, PNG Customs, and PNG Ports, complicating efforts to address the situation. Legal constraints are further slowing the ABG’s ability to act decisively. With growing fears over public safety, pressure was mounting for all responsible authorities to resolve the matter and ensure the MV Tulele is removed before disaster strikes. Report with photo: https://www.postcourier.com.pg/sinking-ship-sparks-political-blame-game-in-bougainville/