By Shailendra Prasad
Fiji’s multi-million-dollar diving industry has received an added boost following the installation of a state-of-the-art hyperbaric chamber at the Pacific Specialist Healthcare Hospital in Nadi.
In 2011, the shark-diving industry alone contributed $42.2 million to Fiji’s economy making the diving industry a key part of the tourism industry.
Recognising the growth of this vital industry, PHS has partnered with the Republic of Fiji Navy to introduce a new facility at Nadi International Airport.
PHS Founder and Chief Executive, Parvish Kumar, said: “In order to keep our tourism numbers growing, we need to show our visitors that we are equally concerned about their health and well-being while in the country.
“I have noted that Tourism Fiji in their corporate plan 2024-27 also encourages diving as one of the key attractions and reasons for tourists to visit Fiji and this has given us the additional confidence to go ahead and establish a partnership with the Republic of Fiji Navy to ensure a smooth and timely delivery of this service at our Legalega facility,” Kumar added.
Fiji is a popular destination for divers because of its many coral and fish species and opportunities to see sharks, whales, and mantra rays.
“Fiji’s weather is warm and tropical, with temperatures ranging from 26°C to 31°C year-round making it a great choice for tourists whose interests mostly revolve around water-based sporting activities.”
Tourism Fiji Chief Executive Brent Hill was excited when advised about the commissioning of the new hyperbaric chamber.
“This is great news and very welcomed by the diving community,” said Hill.
Echoing these sentiments, Fiji Hotel and Tourism Association Chief Executive, Fantasha Lockington said they have been eagerly looking forward to the commissioning of the hyperbaric chamber and connecting with the emergency team that will be operating the service at PSH.
“This information would be included in our ‘Dive Emergency Notes’ that we update regularly as it is shared with the diving communities around the world,” Lockington said.
Hyperbaric chambers, also known as decompression chambers, have two main purposes.
Decompression is a technique that helps divers gradually decompress and return to the surface safely without experiencing decompression sickness.
Meanwhile, recompression chambers simulate underwater conditions by putting the patient back under pressure.
