Boat operators in Lagos have expressed concerns over high fares, economic challenges and operational inefficiencies that have led many commuters to abandon waterway transportation.

Despite efforts by the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) to improve safety, resulting in zero boat accidents in Lagos State for the second quarter of 2024, stakeholders attribute this safety record to a significant decline in waterways ridership.

The Secretary of the Association of Tourist Boat Operators and Water Transporters of Nigeria (ATBOWATON), Lagos chapter, Ayomikun Aworetan, emphasised that the current economic realities have significantly reduced the use of ferries and boats in the state.

He acknowledged the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and commission new boats but noted that other factors continue to hinder the growth of waterway usage.

Aworetan said the high cost of boat fares, ranging from N1,500 to N2,500 per trip, poses a significant financial burden on daily commuters.

Aworetan highlighted that routes that previously saw heavy traffic, such as those to Badagry, have significantly declined.

“There used to be 10 to 15 boats operating from CMS, Liverpool, and Kirikiri to Badagry or Port Novo, but now there are barely three boats at CMS; sometimes there are none,” he added.

Aworetan stressed that reducing the costs of fuel and boat operations would likely increase ridership, while he also mentioned that better and safer boats could lead to a significant rise in waterway usage.

The Liverpool Unit Chairman of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Ayeyemi Omosuyi, confirmed that the waterways have experienced a decline in passenger numbers, primarily due to the recent fuel price hike. He noted that while boat operators remain operationally sound, the increase in fuel costs has led to fewer passengers opting for boat travel.

Omosuyi explained that the fare from Liverpool to Badagry currently stands at N3,500 whereas vehicles charge a much lower fare of N1,500 for the same journey.

Omosuyi explained that this stark difference in pricing has made road travel more attractive, especially given the high cost of living. Despite this, Omosuyi mentioned that some passengers still prefer waterway transportation to avoid heavy traffic on the roads, prioritizing a faster and more efficient journey over the cost difference.

The National Public Relations Officer of the Waterfront Boat Owners and Transporters Association of Nigeria (WABOTAN), Raymond Gold, emphasised that despite challenges, people continue to utilise waterway transport, particularly for shorter journeys where it offers a viable alternative to road congestion.

Gold highlighted the relevance of waterway travel as a solution to commuting woes faced on the roads, such as traffic jams.

The post Boat operators lament fare hike appeared first on Guardian Nigeria News.

Powered by WPeMatico