Lake Kariba Ferry Services Face Further Delay As New Boat Fails Inspection
Hopes of restoring passenger transport on Lake Kariba have been delayed after a private vessel failed its initial safety inspection.
The operator had hoped to secure permission to run services between Kariba and Chalala.
However, inspectors identified structural and safety concerns that must be corrected before the boat can carry passengers.
The development comes as communities around the lake continue to face transport difficulties following last month’s deadly ferry disaster.
Also Read: Government Considers Private Ferries For Kariba Route As Mbuya Nehanda Death Toll Hits 94
Boat Must Pass Second Inspection
Speaking to The Herald, Inland Waters director Captain Lameck Chitenga confirmed that the vessel did not meet the required standards during Friday’s inspection.
He said authorities had identified several issues that needed attention before the operator could proceed.
The vessel will undergo another inspection once the identified shortcomings have been rectified.
A temporary operating permit could then be issued if the boat satisfies all regulatory requirements.
The operator has also submitted registration documents to Government for consideration.
Communities Still Without Ferry Service
The proposed service was seen as a possible lifeline for residents who rely on water transport to access fishing areas, markets and other essential services.
The route became vacant following the August 11 sinking of the MV Rida Mbuya Nehanda.
The disaster claimed 97 lives after the ferry, which was carrying passengers and goods, capsized amid strong waves.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared the incident a State of Disaster.
The declaration allowed Government to mobilise emergency response resources and provide support to affected families.
Government Turns To Private Sector
Government has been engaging private operators in an effort to restore transport on the lake without compromising passenger safety.
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona said the private sector had an important role to play in finding a sustainable solution.
He said Government was prepared to facilitate the registration process while ensuring vessels met stringent safety requirements.
The Minister added that investigations into the ferry disaster were being conducted under the Inland Waters Shipping Act.
Authorities are examining regulatory compliance, maritime safety procedures and other circumstances surrounding the tragedy.
Smaller Vessel Could Provide Relief
Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs and Devolution Minister Marian Chombo has called for a boat to be deployed as soon as possible.
She said communities could benefit even from a smaller vessel while longer-term solutions are being developed.
The Kariba-Chalala route is particularly important for people who depend on the lake for fishing and trade.
Chombo said several islands around Lake Kariba are used by residents for fishing and related economic activities.
Her office, she said, was ready to support Government efforts to restore essential services to affected communities.
The post Lake Kariba Ferry Services Delayed After New Boat Fails Safety Inspection appeared first on iHarare News.
