REGULAR sea travellers are calling on the Malaita Provincial Government to encourage more larger passenger vessels to service the Honiara–Auki route.
The appeal follows growing frustration over the limited capacity of the two fast craft currently serving the route – Pelican and MV Auki Express, which are reportedly struggling to meet the increasing passenger demand due to Malaita’s huge population.
Reports reaching Solomon Star indicate that in recent weeks, many passengers have been unable to secure space due to overbooked schedules.
A regular traveller told Solomon Star that both vessels had been fully booked throughout the past week, leaving passengers with no viable travel options.
“If bigger vessels were available especially during weekends, they would be better suited to accommodate families, cargo and large luggages,” the man said.
These two fast crafts cannot accommodate more luggage unlike the bigger vessels.
The Malaita Provincial Government has maintained its open-arms policy toward all shipping operators interested in serving Malaita.
In a recent media statement, the Malaita Provincial Secretary Erick George reaffirmed that there are no restrictions in place for shipping companies wishing to operate in Malaita.
“We welcome any shipping company that is willing to provide reliable services to the people of Malaita.”
In the past Fair Trade Shipping used to serve the route using MV Fair Lady.
However, a move taken by a past regime had denied the shipping company from serving the province.
By SOLOMON LOFANA
Solomon Star, Auki
