The Maritime Component of Operation Whirl Stroke has issued a safety advisory to mariners, boat operators, passengers, and riverine communities, warning of increased dangers on inland waterways due to rising water levels caused by the ongoing rainy season.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Maritime Component Commander, Lieutenant Commander Dusse Christopher Zakari, said the directive was issued on the instruction of the Force Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke, Major General Moses Gara, to prevent avoidable accidents and ensure the safety of lives and property within the Joint Operations Area.
According to the statement, the heavy rains have significantly increased water volumes across rivers and waterways, resulting in stronger currents and turbulence that pose serious risks to water transportation and other riverine activities.
Zakari warned that the prevailing conditions could lead to boat accidents, loss of lives, and destruction of property if operators and passengers fail to observe established safety regulations.
To mitigate the risks, the Maritime Component outlined a number of mandatory safety measures for all waterway users. Passengers and mariners are required to wear life jackets at all times while on board, while boat operators must ensure that at least one life buoy is available on every vessel.
The advisory also prohibited overloading of boats beyond their approved carrying capacities and directed operators to carry essential emergency equipment, including functional torchlights, spare spark plugs, and tarpaulins.
In addition, mariners were urged to avoid polluting waterways with waste materials, particularly non-biodegradable items, in order to preserve the aquatic environment.
For security reasons, maritime unions were directed to enforce a ban on night sailing, with all marine operations restricted to between 6:30 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily. Boat operators were also instructed to register with their respective unions and carry valid means of identification while operating on the waterways.
The commander further appealed to residents of riverine communities to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious movements or criminal activities to security agencies.
Zakari stressed that violators of the safety directives would face sanctions in line with existing regulations and called on maritime unions to ensure strict compliance among their members.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Maritime Component of Operation Whirl Stroke to safeguarding lives, protecting property, and maintaining security across waterways within its operational area.
The public was urged to cooperate with security agencies by adhering to the safety guidelines and exercising caution throughout the rainy season.
