The MV MA Lisha, a new North-West bound ferry, is expected to arrive in Guyana by the end of this week, after completing its journey from Kolkata to Chennai and traversing the Atlantic Ocean to Trinidad. On April 3rd, the vessel was offloaded from the MV Sun Rise at the Port of Chaguaramas, in preparation for its final leg to Guyana.
A 14-member Guyanese crew, led by Captain Courtney McDonald, a veteran Guyanese Captain and Director of Maritime Safety at the Maritime Administration Department, will guide the ferry home. The crew is complemented by three members from Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Limited and two technicians from MACORP.
Bishop Juan Edghill, Minister of Public Works, expressed his excitement about the ferry’s arrival, highlighting the government’s commitment to improving the country’s transportation infrastructure, especially in the hinterland regions. The ferry has the capacity to carry up to 276 passengers, 14 sedan-type vehicles, and two trucks, making it ideal for this route.
Minister Edghill noted that the economic benefits for local businesses would be significant, as the ferry’s cold and cool room storage facilities will help reduce spoilage and accommodate up to 250 tonnes of cargo. The ferry is equipped with a front loading/offloading ramp and side boarding capacity, making it easy to load and discharge cargo at ports.
During 2022 and earlier this year, a total of 19 Navigational, Mechanical and Auxiliary Staff of the Transport and Harbours Department were trained in India to operate the new ferry vessel. The ferry’s arrival is expected to significantly improve transportation in the region and enhance economic growth for local businesses.
