It's not as efficient, but it's not like there's a shortage of manpower there. Also not quite as ergonomic, but that definitely isn't a concern here. The main problem is cramming as much rowing power in the boat as possible, and that setup works.

The last time I rowed a boat was a bit over three weeks ago, and reversing has it's uses.

Edit: And one more mistake in the picture. The oars would be bumping into the structural beams.

Edit2: It's probably an ai slop illustration and I have no reason to think such setups were ever actually used, so my reasoning about sacrificing efficiency for more rowers is moot. My main point was that such a setup would be technically possible and would go forward.