The ferry MV Barima, carrying 116 passengers, capsized near Iron Punt off the coast of Guyana while traveling from Georgetown to Port Kaituma on July 18 around 11:00 pm local time (03:00 GMT July 19) [1, 2, 3]. A distress call was sent at approximately 23:00-23:01 local time, alerting authorities to the incident [1, 2, 3].
The MV Barima is about 40 meters (131 feet) long and was built in 1939. It was equipped with around 250 life jackets and several life rafts. Sources differ on the exact number and type of rafts: some report two rigid and six inflatable rafts [1, 3], while others cite eight lifeboats onboard [2].
Rescue efforts are ongoing and involve the government coastguard and private vessels [1, 2, 3]. Reports vary on the number of passengers rescued so far. One source confirms 8 have been saved, while others state 53 survivors have been pulled from the water [1, 2, 3]. Public Works Minister Juan Edghill said, "There is an active search and rescue operation that is taking place, and we pray for the safety of all" [2].
Guyana’s Prime Minister Mark Phillips is leading the government response to the emergency [1, 2]. A medical team has been dispatched to the site to provide treatment to survivors [2]. The cause of the ferry capsizing remains unknown as investigations continue [2].
Search and rescue operations are ongoing as authorities work to locate and aid all passengers. The situation remains fluid several hours after the incident was reported.
