In the wake of the catastrophic fires that have ravaged parts of Maui island this week, action and support from the shipping industry rapidly escalates. As firefighting efforts manage to contain about 80% of the hard-hit areas, including Lahaina, the maritime community is steadfastly responding to their call to duty.
President Joe Biden signed a severe disaster declaration on Thursday, freeing up additional federal resources to aid the aid-stricken island of Hawaii. The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission promptly issued a preceding order to escalate the transportation of disaster response and essential cargo, considerably easing Matson’s efforts to transfer more goods directly from Honolulu to Maui.
The Beacon of Hope: Kahului Commercial Harbor
The situation is becoming turbulent with over a thousand structures reported ruined, and persistent pockets of fire are flaring up around the island. Despite these unfortunate circumstances, the commercial harbor of Kahului stands intact, providing a much-needed lifeline to the island for supplies. The U.S. Coast Guard assumed an indispensable role in the rescue tasks early on, and they remain committed to supporting the affected population and their rescue missions.
A Combined Front of Effort and Support
Matson, a notable shipping giant, is diligently collaborating with county, state, and federal emergency response agencies to prioritize the movement of emergency equipment and relief supplies. The company, renowned for its biweekly service to Maui, has already commissioned an extra barge and considering additional voyages to the island as necessitated by the situation.
Additional Relief Efforts and Solidarity
Young Brothers, a known inter-island freight handler, is also prioritizing the loading and transport of critical medical supplies and vehicles on its barges bound for Kahului. Likewise, Pasha Hawaii promptly set in motion its Emergency Response Plan. The company, offering twice-weekly connections from the U.S. West Coast into Maui, is giving precedence to emergency rations, foodstuffs, and medical supplies for transport to Maui.
With over 30,000 locals and tourists being evacuated, the efforts are not exclusive to the shipping industry. Hawaiian Airlines played a significant role in evacuation efforts, reporting to have transported over 5,700 passengers in a single day. Norwegian Cruise Line, having one of the only cruise ships operating year-round in Hawaii, announced a substantial donation of $50,000.
Unfaltering Assistance Amid Devastation
While the fires in Maui rage on, the concerted rescue and aid efforts continue unclipped. The shipping industry, along with other sectors, is collaborating and initiating measures to provide the much-needed comfort and assistance. This unfortunate event has become an epitome of the unity displayed amid crises, as everyone bands together to rebuild a damaged paradise.
