Fuel price hike hits boat operators as patronage dips

• Commuters switch to cheaper alternatives
        
Boat operators in Lagos State are lamenting a sharp decline in patronage due to rising fuel prices and higher passenger fares.
The usually busy Apapa jetty was deserted when Daily Sun visited on Monday, as a boat with a capacity of over 60 passengers struggled to fill just 25, leaving several seats vacant.
A boat driver who spoke with Daily Sun attributed the decline to rising fuel prices, increased operational costs and higher fares, which have forced commuters to seek cheaper alternatives through road and rail transport.
Boat operators described the trend as a threat to the survival of water transportation in the country....