MARAD tug services to be revived shortly

DPI, GUYANA, Monday, March 26, 2018

The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is working to reinstitute tug services for vessels coming to port in Georgetown.

The service, which is expected to be re-implemented this year, would see barges, disabled ships, log rafts or vessels that cannot move by themselves such as ships in a crowded harbour or a narrow canal, being manoeuvred into the port. It is aimed at promoting greater safety along the waterways.

MARAD’s Director, Claudette Rogers told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that the service has been inactive for some time. “It’s because we have all these activities and functions, we have not had an opportunity to restart it. It seems new because we have not done it in a long time, but it is something we must do, especially since safety is our watchword.”

The director explained that it is critical that the administration ensures the revived service meets international standard.

“Any vessel that is coming to port or any vessel that we would be bringing in, must be aided by a tug for safe mooring. So, should something malfunction for the vessel at least you have the tug that will take it safely into any facility.”

As the administration works to revive this service, its dredging programme continues. In 2017, the Demerara River’s main shipping channel was dredged to an unprecedented 5.9 metres chart datum. Rogers attributed this significant accomplishment to the hard work executed by diligent staff.

“Dredging is ongoing and has to be continuous because we’ve had siltation problems. The 5.9 metres chart datum was commendable, but we have to applaud those who have been continuously dredging the channel for us to accomplish such a chart datum in a short time,” she underscored.

The director said dredging stimulates economic development and promotes efficiency within the maritime industry.

 

By: Ranetta La Fleur