Off the coast of the South American country of Guyana, the passenger ferry named MV Barima, carrying 116 passengers, capsized. Search and rescue operations launched after the accident are ongoing.
How Did the Accident Occur?
The ferry overturned off Pomeroon while traveling from the capital, Georgetown, to the Port Kaituma region in the country's northwest. A large-scale rescue operation was launched after a distress call reached the Timehri Air Traffic Control tower around 11:00 PM local time.
The Guyana Defence Force, Coast Guard teams, and private boats in the region participated in the rescue efforts. The country's Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, stated in an initial announcement that 8 people had been rescued alive and the search for other passengers was ongoing.
About the Ferry
- Vessel name: MV Barima
- Year built: 1939
- Length: 40 meters
- Safety equipment: 250 life jackets, 2 rigid life rafts, 6 inflatable life rafts
- Route: Georgetown – Port Kaituma passenger and cargo service
The MV Barima is operated by the state ferry company under Guyana's Ministry of Public Works and serves as the primary maritime link for the country's northwest region, which has limited road access.
Current Situation
At the time of this publication, the event was still developing. A confirmed number of fatalities has not yet been released by authorities; figures may change as rescue efforts continue. The cause of the accident has also not been officially reported.
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Sources: Kaieteur News (Guyana), BBC. This news will be updated as developments occur.