By Kingsley Mamore, GNA
Dambai (O/R), Nov. 05, GNA – The Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA) has engaged boat operators and traditional authorities in Dambai, to deliberate on effective measures to prevent recurring boat and canoe disasters on the Oti River.
The meeting brought together key stakeholders including chiefs, boat operators, and government representatives, to promote safety and compliance on the river.
Daasebre Atamafuwiesi Bonja II, the Overlord of Chonke, expressed the commitment of traditional leaders in the area to support the Ghana Maritime Authority (GMA), in enforcing safety regulations.
He said the chiefs were fully behind the GMA’s plans to ensure that all passengers wore life jackets before boarding boats, and that operators complied with maritime laws, to reduce the frequent river accidents.
Madam Jemilat Jawulaa Mahama, the Chairperson of the GMA Board, commended the chiefs for their cooperation and assured them that the Authority would move forward to strictly enforce maritime safety regulations.
She said the wearing of life jackets would soon be backed by law following the chiefs’ approval and added that the Authority would introduce load lines for boats, to prevent overloading.
Madam Mahama urged boat operators to ensure their vessels were in good condition before their usage and cautioned them against allowing underage children to operate canoes, describing the act as dangerous and illegal.
Mr Nelson Kofi Djabab, the Member of Parliament (MP) of Krachi East, appealed to the GMA to provide a speedboat for patrols on the Oti River, to help curb accidents and enhance safety.
Boat operators who attended the meeting expressed their gratitude to the GMA for the engagement and pledged to comply with all safety directives and also presented their concerns to the Authority for consideration.
The engagement forms part of the Ghana Maritime Authority’s nationwide effort to promote safe water transport and reduce accidents on inland waterways.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah/ Christabel Addo