IN a media release, the Maritime Administration (MARAD) said it had embarked on several safety initiatives in 2018 to reduce accidents on the waterways of Guyana. Some of the initiatives taken were: training and certification exercises for passenger vessel operators in Regions One, Two, Seven, and Eight, and enforcement activities along the riverine areas of the country.

The enforcement activities were a collaborative effort between MARAD and the Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard. Additionally, according to MARAD, operators were also given an opportunity to visit its safety centres located in the areas of Bartica, Mabaruma, and Charity to commence the process of certification, so as to operate their vessels on the waterways.

The total number of boat operators who have received Harbour and River Competency Licences so far, stemming from training in the hinterland areas is 65. As a result of these initiatives, the department said it has seen a reduction in river accidents and deaths so far in 2018, when compared to 2017.

In 2018 there were four deaths from January to October, whereas in 2017, nine deaths were recorded during the same period. In the case of persons sustaining injuries as a result of river accidents during the period January to October 2018, only three were recorded, as compared to seven for 2017. There have been five river accidents recorded so far for this year, whereas in 2017, 18 were recorded. MARAD will be implementing new safety measures in the new year in an effort to minimise accidents occurring on the waterways of Guyana.