The MV Barima which was out of commission since November 2015 is now fully rehabilitated and ready for operation. This refurbishment is reported to cost some $150M.
A statement from the Government Information Agency (GINA) yesterday (Friday March 3, 2017) said the vessel will complement the services provided by the Lady Northcote from Georgetown to the Northwest District, Region One.
The MV Barima will also dock at Port Kaituma and Kumaka.
As a consequence of the refurbishment the vessel now sports some new and welcomed features including “seating accommodation, 200 adult and 50 children’s life jackets, new beds for sailors and crew members, television sets and most importantly, a new crane to load cargo on board.”
In an invited comment at the re-commissioning Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson explained that the repairs were delayed due to the time taken to import parts.
The contracting company identified for this job was Courtney Benn Construction who was assisted by Engineers and other technical staff from the Transport and Harbours Department.
Ms Ferguson also told GINA based on indications from the contractor on the project, that with new engines, the vessel is expected to move faster, thereby reducing the journey to Region One.
The rehabilitation is reported to have come in on budget even with the new features.
