Dear Editor,
I am deeply saddened by the news of the recent ferry tragedy. Our heartfelt prayers are with the affected families during this time of grief.
This tragic event highlights the critical need for stricter adherence to maritime safety rules. Hundreds of lives are lost annually in preventable domestic ferry accidents. To protect human lives and maintain public trust, infrastructure modernisation must prioritise safety.
Key safety standards must be strictly enforced, including limiting vessel lifespans, respecting weight distributions, ensuring proper visibility, restricting late-night travel, and properly training crew members in maintenance and emergency response. Furthermore, basic standards like providing life jackets for all passengers are non-negotiable.
Safety must be a collaborative, international effort. A ferry service should benefit the public, not cause harm.