River ferry operations in Bukamal suspended pending completion of safety procedures

The Deir ez-Zor Governorate Emergency Response Committee announced today the immediate suspension of river ferry operations in the Al-Bukamal area of ​​the governorate's countryside. The committee stated that the decision was made "out of concern for the safety of citizens and to regulate traffic."

Ferry and raft services are the primary means of crossing the Euphrates River in Deir ez-Zor, as bridges remain out of service due to destruction during the years of war. This has made river crossing a necessary solution for transporting people and vehicles between the two banks, despite its inherent risks and the need for stricter safety measures.

Committee Chairman Fayez Abbas stated that the decision is a prelude to an inspection tour to be conducted by the area's administration tomorrow, Sunday, to ensure that all ferries meet public safety requirements. He explained that the requirements include a technical inspection of the engines, the provision of rescue rafts, a ban on more than one ferry being in the water at a time during transit, and adherence to the permitted load limits.

He added that a rescue boat, a diver, and an ambulance will be on standby in case of any emergency, in addition to the establishment of a security barrier on both banks of the river to regulate traffic.

He emphasized that ferry operations will not be permitted to resume until all safety requirements are met, stressing that any violation will subject the perpetrator to legal accountability.

ANHA