THE Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) is collaborating with the Marine Police and Coast Guard to have joint enforcement, marine exercises conducted in the riverine areas of Guyana this month.In a release MARAD said the exercises will see officers checking the certification and registration of vessels and boat operators, and also ensure that operators comply with all river safety rules.

Areas to be targeted include, the Pomeroon, Cuyuni/Mazaruni,Waini, and other rivers in the Region One area. MARAD, being the regulatory agency for the river laws, has the responsibility for the Registration and Licensing of vessels and operators in Guyana, under the River Navigation Chapter 50:01, while the enforcement of these laws, lie within the constabulary powers and capabilities of the Guyana Police Force and the Coast Guard.

MARAD has established centers in Mabaruma, Charity and Bartica, and boat operators are encouraged to utilise the services of these centers in an effort to improve the safe use of the rivers.