Ferry stalls midstream again in Likoni

By Patrick Beja

Another ferry stalled midstream at the Likoni Channel causing panic among hundreds of passengers and motorists.

Mv Pwani had engine failure early on Monday during peak hours and had to be rescued from drifting into the high seas by a flagship vessel, Mv Nyayo. Some frightened passengers jumped over from Mv Pwani into Mv Nyayo fearing the former could sink and expose them to the risk of drowning in the Indian Ocean.

When the Mv Pwani finally sailed safely to the South mainland ramp, Mv Kilindini towed it away for repairs after discharging the people and vehicles it was carrying.

Commuters said the incident occurred at about 7am and lasted for nearly 40 minutes.

Kenya Ferry Service (KFS) Corporate Affairs Manager Elizabeth Wachira explained that Mv Pwani lost power to sail in strong waves and had to be rescued by Mv Nyayo.

"Passengers risked drowning by jumping onto Mv Nyayo. We advised them not to take risks," she said.

There was chaos at the channel as the dispatch of two other ferries to rescue Mv Pwani paralysed operations, leading to heavy congestion.

Meanwhile, KFS officials said two new ferries to cost Sh1 billion might be delivered from Germany in two months time, according to Wachir