With its extensive coastline and network of rivers, Arakan (Rakhine) State relies heavily on waterways as a primary means of transportation for many communities.
A series of fatal boat accidents across the state has prompted calls for the United League of Arakan (ULA) administration—the political wing of the Arakan Army (AA)—to enforce mandatory life jacket use and strengthen safety inspections for passenger vessels operating on inland waterways.
The renewed calls follow a passenger boat accident on June 15, when a vessel traveling from Kutaung Village in Rathedaung Township to Kyauktaw town capsized in Kin Creek near Ponnagyun Town. The incident claimed the lives of 11 people, including 5 women.
According to rescue teams involved in the operation, none of the victims were wearing life jackets, a factor that contributed significantly to the high death toll.
“Standard-quality life jackets are essential safety equipment. In a maritime emergency, they can keep a person afloat for 48 to 72 hours. The ULA and AA should carry out strict inspections of vessels operating on water routes, just as helmet regulations are enforced for motorcyclists on roads,” said Ko Pyae Phyo Naing, chairman of the Ponnagyun Youths Association.
Maritime regulations require commercial passenger vessels to carry adequate life-saving equipment for all passengers. Under current laws, operators who fail to provide such equipment or ensure passengers comply with safety requirements can face license revocation and other legal penalties.
As the ULA now controls most of Arakan State, civil society groups said its administration should strengthen oversight of maritime transportation, including inspections of vessel safety standards and measures to prevent overloading.
“Passenger boats often carry too many people and excessive cargo, which has led to many tragic accidents. Boat owners who exceed safe weight limits should be held accountable so that similar incidents can be prevented in the future,” said Ko Zeyar Kyaw, a resident of Kyauktaw.
Concerns over water transport safety have also increased with the arrival of the rainy season, which frequently brings strong winds and rough water conditions across Arakan State.
On May 12, a boat carrying Muslim villagers returning from a football match in Minbya Township capsized in the Lemro River, killing 9 people, including an eight-year-old child.
Residents said waterways remain the primary mode of transportation for many communities throughout Arakan State, but weak enforcement of safety regulations and negligence continue to contribute to fatal boat accidents each year.
