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What are Indonesia's biggest maritime safety issues?
Indonesia faces several maritime safety challenges, including overloading of vessels, inadequate safety enforcement, and poor coordination among authorities. These systemic issues often lead to accidents, especially during peak travel times or bad weather. The frequent occurrence of ferry accidents underscores the need for stricter safety measures.
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How does overloading affect ferry safety in Indonesia?
Overloading is a major safety concern in Indonesia, with vessels often carrying more passengers than their capacity. This increases the risk of capsizing, fires, and other accidents. For example, the recent ferry fire near North Sulawesi involved a vessel carrying more than double its manifest capacity, significantly raising safety risks.
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What steps is Indonesia taking to improve maritime safety?
The Indonesian government is working to strengthen safety regulations, improve enforcement, and enhance rescue capabilities. However, challenges remain due to systemic issues like corruption and lack of resources. Recent incidents have prompted calls for stricter oversight and better coordination among maritime authorities.
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Are ferry accidents common in Indonesia?
Yes, ferry accidents are unfortunately quite common in Indonesia. The country's extensive archipelago and reliance on ferries make safety a critical issue. Recent months have seen multiple incidents, including sinking and fires, often linked to overcapacity and poor safety practices.
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Why is maritime safety enforcement so difficult in Indonesia?
Enforcing safety regulations in Indonesia is challenging due to corruption, limited resources, and lack of coordination among agencies. Many vessels operate without proper oversight, and violations like overloading often go unpunished, increasing the risk of accidents.