SIBU: The Sarawak Rivers Board (SRB) has set a target of zero incident for those using river transportation for the coming festive celebrations.
Coastal Road Assistant Minister Datuk Julaihi Narawi said that a two-phase safety enforcement operation in conjunction with the upcoming Gawai Dayak, Hari Raya and school holiday was launched by the board.
The first phase is from May 24 to 31 while the second will be held from June 1 to 9. According to Julaihi, SRB is stationing 185 officers and 15 enforcement patrol boats during the operation assisted by 90 officers and five boats from other enforcement agencies.
“The focus is on express boats, speed boats and private boats to prevent overloading.
“River blocks will be mounted at certain locations. The safety of passengers tops the list of priorities,” he said during the launch of the safety enforcement operation in conjunction with the upcoming Gawai Dayak, Hari Raya and school holiday held at Sibu Express Boat Terminal here yesterday.
Among the core objectives is to ensure that express boats and speed boats comply with the safety requirements and possess valid River Transport Permit (RTP).
“Passenger boats are not to exceed the maximum capacity approved,” said Julaihi.
He added that SRB will also conduct stringent checks on passenger boats, including pre-departure inspections.
Stating that the “No Ticket, No Entry” rule is stringently enforced, he urged passengers to adhere to the safety measures, including providing their particulars.
He added that SRB will approve the requests for extra express boats trip with immediate effect for boat operators to make extra trips if needed.
