A new eco-friendly ferry named Barra has joined the fleet operating between Banjul and Barra in The Gambia, according to Gambia Ferry Services.
The vessel, built in the Netherlands, combines fuel generators with solar panels and battery storage, making it the first ferry of its kind in the national fleet and helping reduce emissions.
The ferry can carry up to 1,000 passengers and more than 50 vehicles. Authorities say its arrival should improve the reliability and safety of the busy crossing across the Gambia River estuary, which is used daily by thousands of travelers.
Several older ferries, including the Kunta Kinteh ferry, have recently been taken out of service for maintenance, making the addition of the Barra particularly important for transport between the two ports.
