DMA conducts regular check on ferry boats in Mawlamyine

Mawlamyine October 25

The Rule Enforcement Committee under the Department of Marine Administration said that it is keeping a constant check on ferry boats plying between Mawlamyine and Chaungzon in Mon State.

“The committee conducts regular checks on the safety of ferry services every day. We will take legal actions against those who break the laws,” said U Zaw Thet Aung, assistant director from the department (Mon State Office). 

‘‘The department plans to disseminate knowledge to ferry owners and drivers in the last week of October so as to avoid the case like the Sagaing ferry accident,” he added.

Two government-owned vessels, 11 private-owned vessels and small boats are transporting around 2,000 passengers daily.

“I have to rely on waterways. Ferry owners and drivers are mainly responsible for the safety of passengers,” said Daw Than Shin from Chaungzon Township.

The committee can suspend running of ferries from three to six months if they are found to fail to abide by the rules.

"Currently, Thanlwin Bridge (Chaungzon) linking Mawlamyine and Chaungzon is under construction and is expected to be completed in March next year. Upon completion, it will bring better transportation to locals," said locals from Chaungzon Township.

The Myawady Daily