Tanzania Suspends Ferry Services as Cyclone Hidaya Approaches

TheTanzania Maritime Authority(TMA) has suspended ferry services between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, as well as other maritime activities in coastal areas of Tanzania, due to the approaching Tropical Cyclone Hidaya. The suspension, effective as of May 3, 2024, will remain in place until further notice from the Meteorological Authority.

Why this matters: The suspension of ferry services highlights the potential devastating impact of Cyclone Hidaya on Tanzania's coastal communities and economy, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to ensure public safety. As the cyclone approaches, the decision to suspendferry services may have far-reaching consequences for the country's transportation and tourism industries.

The TMA has been warning of the approaching cyclone since Thursday, May 2, 2024, advising against maritime activities, including traveling from Mainland Tanzania to the isles. The Tanzania Electrical, Mechanical, and Electronics Services Agency (Temesa) has also issued a notice to ferry users in certain areas, including Mtwara, Lindi, and Coast regions, informing them of the suspension of ferry services to safeguard against potential impacts arising from Cyclone Hidaya.

Ferry services were suspended due tostrong windsat sea and will remain suspended until the authorities declare otherwise. One of the ferries that suspended its services is MV. Kilindoni, which was scheduled to depart from Mafia to Nyamisati on May 3, 2024, but did not depart due to strong winds.

In a statement, Temesa said, "Temesa apologizes to all passengers for the inconvenience caused by the challenges posed by the presence of the cyclone and reminds them to continue following the instructions of the boat captains at all times to remain safe."

Cyclone Hidaya is expected to make an impact on Tanzania's coastline, with some parts of the country already experiencing strong winds and rainfall. The cyclone is expected to weaken on May 6, 2024.

The suspension of ferry services between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar, as well as in other coastal regions of Tanzania, highlights the serious nature of the approaching Cyclone Hidaya. Authorities have taken proactive measures to ensure the safety of passengers and prevent any potential incidents at sea. As the cyclone progresses, the country remains vigilant and prepared to face the challenges posed by thisnatural disaster.

Key Takeaways

• Tanzania Maritime Authority suspends ferry services due to Cyclone Hidaya.
• Suspension effective May 3, 2024, until further notice from Meteorological Authority.
• Ferry services suspended due to strong winds at sea.
• Cyclone Hidaya expected to impact Tanzania's coastline with strong winds and rainfall.
• Cyclone expected to weaken on May 6, 2024.