-Edghill tells Supenaam operators
Supenaam speed boat operators on Friday got the opportunity to voice their concerns when they met with Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill and he pointed to service issues such 20 vessels malfunctioning on the river for this year.
Some of the concerns raised were unauthorised fare increases and operational inefficiencies impacting daily commuters. One such concern was the matter of speedboat operators still charging Region Two passengers $1,500 although the fare is $1300. However, the operators countered that $1,500 was fair and profitable for them.
Another major issue raised was the recurring problem of boat engines cutting out mid-river, posing serious risks to both passengers and operators.
In response to this, Edghill underscored the importance of regular maintenance and strict adherence to safety protocols to prevent such incidents. He urged operators to conduct routine inspections and ensure their vessels remain in top condition to guarantee safe and reliable service.
Operators were also reminded that any adjustments to fares must be formally approved by the relevant authorities. The Minister also emphasised the need to strike a balance between maintaining affordability for commuters and ensuring fair compensation for operators, stressing that transparency and compliance with regulations are essential.
Beyond these immediate concerns, the minister discussed ways to enhance overall service efficiency. Key areas of focus included improving passenger boarding and disembarking procedures, enforcing the mandatory use of life jackets, and ensuring compliance with national maritime regulations.
He encouraged operators to work closely with the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) to uphold industry standards and improve service delivery. He reminded them that they are providing a service and must do so professionally. The minister said that for 2025, 20 boats have already malfunctioned on the river. This, he said, is unacceptable.
As such, he called on operators to conduct regular inspections. He was told that inspections are done every Wednesday and once an operator is not in compliance with safety then necessary actions will be taken.
Accompanying Edghill were Captain Stephen Thomas, Director General of MARAD, and regional representatives, who provided additional guidance and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening water transportation in Region Two.
The engagement was part of a broader effort to improve safety, efficiency, and regulatory compliance in the river transport sector, ensuring a more reliable experience for all commuters.
