Passengers lament frustration over ferries closure

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By Sheriff Saidykhan 


Passengers crossing from Banjul to Barra route have lamented their growing frustration over the closure of the ferries.


On Friday, the Kanilai ferry had experienced engine failure near the turning buoy en route to the Barra lander. Due to the severe weather conditions, the ferry was unable to reach the lander and eventually drifted towards the beach. 


Lamin Jammeh, a frequent traveller from Banjul to the Barra route expressed his frustration, saying it will delay the transportation of goods and services. This he added will hinder the socio-economic development of the country.



“As a frequent traveller of Banjul Barra ferry crossing, it will be very stressful to see the closure of the Ferry service, it's the fastest way one can use when going to North Bank compared to using the south Bank. The closure of the Ferry service will delay the transportation of good and service from and to the urban center this will seriously hinder the socio- economic development of the nation in general and the traders in particular. I therefore expect the central government and The Gambia Ports Authority to take urgent actions in solving the problem anytime soon for the benefits of the ordinary users of the Ferry service” he said 


Cherno Omar Bob, another traveller equally spoke his frustration. He said the withdrawal of the ferry has caused many predicaments for travellers who have to cross by boats with their families during the Eid-ul-fitr celebration.



“The withdrawal of the ferry has caused challenges for travelers especially the elderly who have to carry to and off the boats. Women with children also suffer a lot having to cross with their children. It is risky for one to cross by boat with his entire family but their was no other option for natives of Nuimi and Badibu who had to go and celebrate the Eid UL Fitr at their natives communities. People's clothes get dirty in the process of carrying them to and off the boats. We therefore call on authorities to address the issue as soon as possible” he said.


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