Minister Calls for Better Hygiene on Inter-Island Ships

The Minister for Employment, Productivity, and Workplace Relations, Agni Deo Singh, has urged inter-island shipping operators to ensure clean and hygienic toilet facilities on their vessels.

He stressed that maintaining hygiene is a key Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) requirement.

The ministry is investigating complaints from passengers about unhygienic toilets on some vessels.

Mr. Singh assured that appropriate action would follow once investigations are complete.

Meanwhile, Interlink Shipping Line manager Adrial Prasad denied the claims, stating that their cleaning team, consisting of 4–5 staff, cleans toilets every 15 minutes.

He explained that the issue might arise when passengers misuse the facilities or leave them in poor condition.

The ministry aims to ensure all operators comply with hygiene standards for safe and comfortable travel.