Boat operators seek Gov’t help for wharf/fuel station at Supenaam

BOAT operators plying the Parika/Supenaam route have committed to providing comfort and safety for commuters traversing the Essequibo River and are seeking government’s patronage for the necessary infrastructure to facilitate their operation.
Members of the Parika/Supenaam Speedboat Association met Tuesday with President Bharrat Jagdeo and Minister of Transport and Hydraulics Robeson Benn with their requests and issues.

Chief among them was clarity on the issue of sheds which the Public Works Ministry had laid out in its list of new safety specifications for boat operators and the possibility of a GuyOil bulk station at Supenaam.
The operators got a promise from the Head of State of assistance in the construction of a wharf at the Supenaam stelling.
“We must thank Mr. President for this meeting; it was fruitful and we assured that this association will be providing good services for commuters,” Ricky Tony, Public Relations Officer of the Parika/Supenaam Speed Boat Association said.
The Supenaam stelling will begin operating at full capacity, allowing for 22 tonne-vehicles, by the end of the week. At present the ferry stelling is accepting up to 20 tonnes, an additional four tonnes from when it resumed operations on March 26.
Following a trial run on March 19, the facility, which had been under repairs to rectify insufficient works carried out during its initial rehabilitative works, resumed operations one week later, accepting trucks weighing up to 16 tonnes.
The ministry’s intervention saw the strengthening of crucial areas in order to make the stelling compatible with vessels that ply the Essequibo River route.
Earlier this year, boat operators plying the Stabroek to Vreed-en-Hoop route met the president to clear the air on rumours of intentions to sell the two stellings, and they were assured that such is not the case.
The Demerara River boat operators were also promised government’s support for a shed and a more comfortable platform for the passengers traversing the route.
At present, there are over 50 boats operating the Stabroek to Vreed-en-Hoop route. Passengers traversing are required to comply with a turn system that is strictly monitored by the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) officials on both sides of the river.
Among the specification laid out by the Public Works Ministry for the promotion of safety are the bulwark aback of the boat to prevent sinking, flotation devices under seats, and a cover to keep out rain and sunlight.
(GINA)

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