Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill has responded to criticisms of the newly launched MV Ma Lisha that is being built from scratch by an Indian firm. The Public Works Minister said the country as a whole must change the culture of seeing things that are not from North America as inferior and not good.
“India is one of the world's leading economies, leading in terms of technology, ICT, agriculture, health and we must erase from our minds as a country the prejudice that if something is not coming from America or the north or the west it is not good.”
The vessel was launched on June 15, 2022 in Kolkata India and ever since, persons have been bashing the government for spending $12.7M for a vessel they claim is inferior. However, Edghill said he and a tram visited the area where the ships were being built and he was impressed with the work that they are doing.
“it is one of the most impressive construction facilities that I have ever seen, the expertise is magnificent, and they are not building yachts and luxury ships. They are building serious, serious, motion going naval vessels.”
The ferry once completed will be able to accommodate 294 passengers from Georgetown to North West. It will also host 10 containers, 14 vehicles, and two fully loaded trucks. It also can 250 tonnes.
Currently, two vessels ply the North West route, and on average, it takes approximately 24 hours to make the trip. With the new vessel, it will cut the travel time by half bringing relief to residents of the North West.
