The National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) and the Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) in a joint statement, have issued a reviewed operational standing order to commercial boat operators in Lagos State, as part of efforts to ensure safety of ferry passengers.
According to the new guideline dated 14th July 2020 and jointly signed by the General Manager of LASWA, Oluwadamilola Emmanuel and the Lagos Area Manager of NIWA, Sarat Braimah, all double engine of four stroke engine driven boat are to revert to pre-COVID-19 full capacity as approved based on inspection.
While all two stroke single engine boat are to maintain maximum of 75% pre-COVID capacity as approved based on inspection.
However, all operators utilizing tiller handle on the outboard engines for steering/ maneuvering T-Long Boat (open) and W23 boats (open) with effect from January 1, 2021, are requested to procure and mount a HYDRAULIC STEERING SYSTEM on the boats for improved safety and better maneuvering.
Similarly, all operators utilizing Helm steering system are also requested to procure and mount a HYDRAULIC STEERING SYSTEM on the boats for improved safety and better maneuvering.
