Residents and businesses in Region One are facing mounting transportation and economic pressures following the July 18 MV Barima tragedy, with limited freight capacity, expensive alternative travel and an unfinished Port Kaituma waterfront project compounding the difficulties, according to A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) Member of Parliament Sherrod Duncan.

Duncan made the assessment following a visit to Mabaruma and Port Kaituma, where he said he spoke with residents, business operators, commuters and other stakeholders about the impact of the vessel’s removal from service.

The MV Barima was the principal maritime link between Georgetown and Port Kaituma before it capsized on July 18. The Government has since launched a Commission of Inquiry into the disaster, while criminal investigations are also under way. The tragedy has intensified scrutiny of the region’s transportation network and the Government’s failure to bring the newer MV Ma Lisha into service on the Port Kaituma route.