The sinking of the MV Barima is a tragedy that should not have occurred

Over the past several decades, many who travelled this route have spoken of its dangers. More recently, questions have been raised about the safety, comfort, sanitary conditions of the vessel. Concerns were aired about discipline and professionalism of maritime crews, the state of disrepair of the wharves, stellings, gantries, loose planks, the sobriety of dock and vessel workers, the access to and availability of life safety devices, and the seaworthiness of vessel.