Water taxis destroyed by fire: Banking, insurance institutions to meet with operators

President Dr Irfaan Ali met with several boat operators and owners whose vessels were destroyed in the fire on August 1 at the Vreed-en-Hoop, West Coast Demerara, stelling.
After discussions, it was agreed that Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibilities for Finance, Dr Singh and representatives of the local banking and insurance sectors will meet with the boat owners and operators next week to explore options for support.

Boat owners and operators meeting with President Dr Irfaan Ali on Monday

Separately, Minister Singh and representatives from the banking and insurance sectors will meet with the victims of the Parika market fire, which occurred in February this year, to explore options for support.
Additionally, Minister within the Public Works Ministry, Deodat Indar, and the Minister within the Local Government Ministry, Anand Persaud also accompanied President Ali to Monday’s meeting.
On August 1, a massive fire destroyed 13 passenger speed boats and damaged six others docked at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling, West Coast Demerara.
According to the Guyana Fire Service (GFS), a distress call was received at about 01:49h regarding a fire raging at the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling, and swift action was taken, with Water Tender #111 and a crew from La Grange Fire Station rushing to the scene. Fire Boat Protector #8 and its crew were also dispatched to combat the blaze.
Upon arrival, firefighters were confronted with the daunting sight of multiple boats engulfed in flames. The fire had rapidly spread, affecting 19 vessels moored at the stelling, and despite valiant efforts, the relentless inferno completely consuming 13 boats and inflicting damage on six others.
Preliminary investigations conducted by the Police reportedly indicated that the fire originated from a vessel docked on the southern side of the Vreed-en-Hoop Stelling. From there the blaze rapidly spread to adjacent boats.
Authorities have taken statements from various individuals, including a watchman responsible for overseeing the vessels. Investigations are still ongoing.