-as gov’t moves to modernise maritime sector
President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali on Wednesday conducted a walkthrough of the government’s latest maritime acquisition, a modern ferry destined to bolster the Georgetown to Barima-Waini (Region 1) route. The vessel, which recently arrived from Europe, represents yet another upgrade in the country’s transport infrastructure.
The ship features a sophisticated set-up equipped with an electronic chart system, modern radar and an automatic identification system (AIS) to track surrounding vessels. It is also equipped with triple propulsion, dual compasses and a dedicated PA system for passenger communication and multiple emergency stop stations.
The vessel boasts a seating capacity of 284 passengers and can carry approximately 51 cars and 14 trucks.
“We are also in the process of modernising all our wharves and port facilities to accomodate these vessels. So it is not only about the vessel, it is about upgrading our infrastructure,” the president pointed out.
President Ali noted that the vessel is part of a broader government strategy to modernise the Transport and Harbours Department, adding that the administration is currently reviewing additional vessels for Region 7 to meet the growing demand.
“Incrementally over the next few years, we will be looking at replacing all the older vessels so we can have the same level of service in all the regions,” the president said.
The new ferry will be cleaned from the effects of salt water endured during its 5200 mile journey from Greece before it officially enters service, joining the M.V Ma Lisha in transforming travel to Guyana’s frontier regions.
Minister of Public Utilities and Aviation, Deodat Indar said that the ministry will be working along with the Transport and Habours Department to ensure that Guyanese can enjoy comfortable travel and shorter travel time.
“Our mandate is really to make sure that travel is reliable, and we have the capacity to deal with the increasing number of trips that we are seeing for Region One and the Parika-Supenaam-Bartica circuit area,” the minister said.
Parliamentary Secretary Thandi McAllister, and senior officials from MARAD were also present to welcome the new vessel.
