Commuters and traders in the Oti Region can now breathe a sigh of relief as the Dambai Ferry, a vital transport link across the Black Volta, has resumed operations after a week-long breakdown that left many stranded and disrupted economic activities.

For seven days, mechanical failure halted ferry services, forcing travelers, traders, and transport operators to seek costly and less efficient alternatives to cross the river.

The ferry is the primary mode of transport for residents and businesses in the Dambai area, ensuring the movement of people, goods, and vehicles.

The disruption hit traders particularly hard, with many unable to transport perishable goods such as fish and vegetables. Some faced significant losses as their products spoiled or had to be rerouted through longer, more expensive paths.

Several traders who spoke to Citi News expressed frustration over the economic toll of the breakdown, citing increased costs and lost revenue.

After days of uncertainty, the Volta River Authority (VRA) completed repairs, restoring the ferry to full operation.

Dambai Central Assembly member, Charles Awuranyi, confirmed the development and reassured residents of the ferry’s functionality. He also stressed the need for regular maintenance to prevent future disruptions.

“The speed ramp that was broken has been repaired by VRA engineers. So now everything is going successfully, but we are pleading that the VRA shouldn’t let the speed ramp get damaged before they come to repair it, there should be regular maintenance.”