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Did the MV Barima have the right keel for Atlantic Ocean travel?
Dear Editor,
In one of my discussion groups on the MV Barima tragedy, it was suggested that the MV Barima was built for use only on the rivers in Guyana and not on the Atlantic Ocean. In fact, the description given of the MV Barima indicated that it was a passenger and cargo ferry of approximately 38.6 meters length overall, 8.9 meters beam and 2.9 meters depth, fitted with twin Caterpillar C18 diesel main engines and Caterpillar diesel generator sets (https://kaieteurnewsonline.com/2026/08/02/govt-backs-down-on-barima-memorial-plan/). Unless this description was incomplete, it should be noted that there was no mention of the keel of the boat. The reason for the keel is that a keel is necessary for any ocean-going vessel. If one were to go to Google on the internet and write the following question: ‘Is a keel necessary for an ocean-going vessel?’, the answer would be yes.
Given that it was claimed that the ocean was rough, one boat engine was not working, and the boat was overloaded, among other safety concerns, the Guyanese people must know whether the MV Barima was built with the appropriate keel for ocean travel. Hence, the proposed lifting of the boat will deliver the answer to this question; and it will assist in the understanding of this national disaster that permanently damaged many families. But thanks to the numerous Guyanese who ensured that the boat would be lifted; and that the families who lost relatives will receive verifiable answers; and that they will be emotionally and financially compensated to ease this life-long pain and suffering that will last for generations. Finally, I thank the many Guyanese who ensured that we shall receive full accountability of this national tragedy.
Sincerely,
Dr. C. Kenrick Hunte
Professor and Former Ambassador
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