To the Editor,
First, let me express my deepest condolences to the many families who lost loved ones, and to those who endured unimaginable suffering while trying to save themselves during the tragic MV Barima accident. This has been one of the darkest moments in our nation’s maritime history, and my thoughts remain with every family affected.
I deliberately refrained from making any public comments out of respect for the victims and their families. However, after reading the recent article quoting Janette Bulkan calling on the Government to utilize certain offshore vessels to salvage the MV Barima, I feel compelled to offer some technical clarification for the benefit of the public.
The article creates a misleading impression that the presence of crane-equipped offshore vessels in Guyana’s waters means they are suitable for this salvage operation. That is simply not the case.
The vessels referenced in the article are Multi-Purpose Supply Vessel (MPSV) for offshore construction and support vessels operating in the oil and gas sector. Their cranes are designed primarily for offshore construction, subsea installation, and project support activities. They are not purpose-built heavy-lift salvage vessels, nor are they specifically designed to recover a wreck of this nature.
Marine salvage is a highly specialized engineering discipline. It involves extensive structural analysis, stability calculations, seabed assessments, environmental considerations, lifting methodologies, weather limitations, and detailed engineering plans before any recovery operation can safely begin. Simply identifying vessels with cranes of sufficient lifting capacity does not mean they are capable of undertaking such a complex salvage operation.
In the case of the MV Barima, resting at approximately 11.5 metres of water at low tide, every decision must be guided by sound engineering, safety, and careful planning. Rushing into a recovery or oversimplifying the process could place additional lives at risk and jeopardize the operation itself.
While everyone is entitled to express an opinion, I respectfully believe that public recommendations on highly technical maritime matters should be made with a full appreciation of the complexities involved. At a time when so many families are grieving, it is important that public commentary informs rather than misleads.
The Government has a responsibility to ensure that any recovery effort is carried out safely, professionally, and with due regard for the victims and their families. These decisions cannot be made based on assumptions or public pressure, but on the advice of qualified salvage professionals and marine engineers.
I therefore urge Janette Bulkan and others commenting publicly on this matter to exercise restraint and allow technical experts to guide the national conversation. This tragedy has already caused immeasurable pain, and we should all be careful not to add to the anguish of grieving families by promoting recommendations that are not supported by the realities of marine salvage.
At this difficult time, let us unite in compassion, support those who have suffered unimaginable loss, and allow those with the appropriate expertise to determine the safest and most effective path forward.
Sincerely,
Marine Superintendent
(Name withheld)