The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation has urged vessel operators to exercise heightened caution when navigating ships made of iron or metal, following a series of incidents linked to regulatory violations involving such vessels.

In a statement, the Ministry highlighted that several hazardous incidents have occurred due to non-compliance with safety and operational regulations governing landing craft, tugs and barges constructed with iron or steel. It warned that improper handling, overloading and failure to secure cargo properly could compromise vessel stability and endanger lives.

The Ministry emphasised that only certified captains are permitted to operate landing crafts in line with the regulations on loading and unloading goods for seafaring vessels. Holders of a Certificate of Competency for 3,000 gross tonnage (GT) are authorised to captain vessels ranging from 100 GT to 3,000 GT.

The regulations further stipulate that only individuals with a valid tonnage endorsement for vessels exceeding 24 metres in length, or up to 100 GT, may be appointed as captains.

Reiterating its call for compliance, the Ministry advised all operators to ensure that cargo is properly lashed and vessels are handled responsibly to prevent instability during operations.