The Lagos State Waterways Authority (LASWA) has removed a dangerously installed dredging pipe that posed a threat to ferry operators and waterway users along the power line en route Ikorodu axis.
The LASWA’s General Manager, Mr Oluwadamilola Emmanuel, said this in a statement on Tuesday in Lagos.
Emmanuel said the removal of the pipe demonstrated LASWA’s unwavering commitment to ensuring safety on the Lagos Inland waterways.
“The poorly installed pipe, left behind by a dredging company, was discovered in the early hours of today.
“It obstructed the movement of two passenger ferries and damaged the hull parts of the boats, creating a potential hazard for waterways users,” he said.
He noted that upon receiving reports of the obstruction, LASWA’s patrol team immediately conducted an on-site inspection and took decisive action to eliminate the risk by installing marker buoys to show the safe path to navigate.
“This effort emphasised LASWA’s vigilance in monitoring and managing the waterways to prevent accidents.
“This swift action of demarcating the danger area and installation of marker buoys prevented what could have been a catastrophic incident,” he said.
He urged dredging companies and marine operators to adhere strictly to safety and environmental regulations to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Emmanuel also called on stakeholders, including dredging companies, boat operators, and waterfront communities, to collaborate in maintaining safe and navigable waterways.
