Channel One News has successfully advocated for a new boat at the Chichagi riverside in the Northern Region, following several reports on the safety and condition of the vessel previously used for crossing the Oti River.
Channel One had repeatedly highlighted the hazardous state of the old boat, emphasising the danger it posed to passengers, and urged authorities to take action to prevent a potential disaster.
On Saturday, July 13, Channel One visited the site to find that a new boat and engine have been procured to replace the old ones.
It was a day of excitement for passengers and canoe operators at the Chichagi riverside in the Nanumba South district of the Northern region, as a new boat replaced the old, dilapidated one on the river.
Channel One News had frequently reported on the perilous conditions passengers faced with the old boat, which was weak, leaking, and required children to constantly bail out water while in motion. The engine was unreliable, and passengers lacked life jackets.
Thanks to these persistent reports, the responsible authorities have responded. A new, larger, and stronger boat, along with a new engine, have been provided to replace the old ones.
Passengers and operators praised Channel One News for their advocacy, acknowledging that the reports led to the improvements.
They expressed relief and gratitude to the Regent of Chichagi for addressing their concerns, stating that their lives are now safer.
The operators told Channel One News that their suffering has been alleviated with the new boat and engine. They also expressed their appreciation to the Regent of Chichagi and Channel One News for the positive outcome.
Despite this success, passengers continue to appeal to the government to consider constructing a bridge over the river to further ease their difficulties.
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