Overcrowding: Many boats operate above their capacity, often carrying more passengers than they are designed for. This practice is common due to the lack of alternative transportation options and the economic pressures to maximize profits, leading to dangerous situations during transit.
Safety Compliance: There is a widespread disregard for safety regulations, including the failure to provide life jackets for passengers. The enforcement of the Waterways Transportation Code has been lax, which contributes to the high incidence of accidents. Many operators do not adhere to safety protocols, increasing the risk of mishaps.
Human Errors: A significant proportion of accidents are attributed to human errors, including poor navigation and decision-making. Factors such as fatigue and drug use among operators exacerbate these issues, leading to avoidable accidents.
Inadequate Infrastructure: The lack of proper docking facilities and maintenance for boats creates operational difficulties. Poor infrastructure limits the ability to safely embark and disembark passengers and cargo, which can lead to accidents.
Emergency Response Challenges: In the event of accidents, emergency response efforts can be hampered by inadequate resources and coordination. For instance, during recent boat mishaps, rescuers faced difficulties due to a lack of passenger manifests and delayed responses.
Environmental Conditions: Weather conditions such as strong currents and poor visibility can pose additional risks for boat operators. Navigating these waterways requires skill and experience, which may not always be present among all operators.
Regulatory Enforcement: Despite calls for stricter enforcement of safety regulations by authorities like the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), compliance remains an issue. The penalties for violations are often insufficient to deter unsafe practices among operators.
These challenges highlight the need for improved regulatory frameworks, better safety practices, and infrastructure development to enhance the safety and efficiency of water transportation in Kogi State.
