Trail of mishaps follows new vessels

Since the two vessels, Mv Likoni and Mv Kwale, started operating at the Likoni Channel, they have been involved in a number of mishaps.

Wednesday’s was the fourth and the most dangerous. In the first two incidents, Mv Kwale stalled midstream for more than 30 minutes, sending fear among the hundreds of commuters and motorists who were using the vessel.

The Nation has established that the coxwains, who are used to the older manual vessels, are having difficulty operating the new vessels, which are operated automatically.

Despite undergoing training on the operation of the vessels, the coxswains are still experiencing problems.

At the same time, motorists have expressed concern over the delay in repairing the ramps to accommodate the bigger vessels.

Several vehicles have broken down at the ramps because the prows are too high.

Earlier, KFS managing director Musa Hassan Musa said that the ramps will be repaired soon to fit the prows of the new vessels.

“The ramps will be expanded to ensure that the ferries dock without any problem,” said Mr Musa.