Ferry operations at the Likoni Channel have been temporarily rescheduled to facilitate the retrieval of a vehicle and its occupants that tragically plunged into the sea aboard the MV Harambee on Sunday evening. The Kenya Ferry Services (KFS) has taken this measure to provide ample space for the various rescue teams involved in the recovery efforts. Mr. Bakari Gowa, the managing director of KFS, addressed the media on Tuesday, October 1, explaining that ferries will be taking a longer route than usual. This adjustment is necessary to ensure that the rescue teams can operate without interference from the regular ferry traffic. The Likoni Channel, which spans 500 metres, is a critical crossing point, and the temporary rerouting aims to facilitate a smooth and efficient recovery operation.
The incident, which occurred on Sunday, has sparked significant public outcry over the perceived sluggish response by the KFS. Many Kenyans have expressed dissatisfaction with how the situation was handled from the initial slithering of the vehicle to its eventual sinking into the deep sea. The victims of this unfortunate accident have been identified as 35-year-old Mariam Kigenda and her four-year-old daughter, Mutheu. They are believed to be trapped over 60 metres underwater, while the vehicle itself is thought to be submerged at a depth of over 170 metres.
The circumstances leading to the vehicle's plunge remain unclear, with conflicting eyewitness accounts adding to the confusion. As the recovery operation continues, Mr. Gowa has informed ferry users to expect delays of between 20 and 30 minutes due to the ongoing exercise. The rescue teams involved in the operation include the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, Kenya Navy, Kenya Maritime Authority, and Kenya Ports Authority. Their collaborative efforts underscore the seriousness of the situation and the commitment to retrieving the sunken vehicle and its occupants.
The accident has raised pressing questions about the safety of ferry users and the preparedness of the KFS in handling emergencies or accidents, both onboard and offboard the ferries that ply the channel. Since Monday morning, family members, friends, and well-wishers have been keeping vigil at the island and mainland ramps, anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. The tragedy has highlighted the urgent need for improved safety measures and emergency response protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
