Stop vandalising the buses
THE Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC) is hoping to bring substantial relief to its commuters along the East/West corridor and the North/South trunk route with the acquisition of 12 new buses. The articulated buses, which cost $20.5 million, should be fully operational by July. The buses have increased capacity as each has two separate sections which are joined by a pivoted bar. The travelling public has been assured that the new buses will not cause an increase in fares, but they are being urged to stop the vandalism of the buses, which creates an unnecessary cost. Speaking yesterday at the commissioning of the air-conditioned buses at PTSC, South Quay, PTSC chairman Ethelbert Paul said the corporation was aware of the public’s dissatisfaction with the service, and thanked them for their tolerance and understanding. He said it is envisioned that the increased passenger capacity (one bus can accommodate 150 passengers) would significantly reduce the time spent by commuters waiting for service. Paul reminded citizens that they had a role to play in the improvement and maintenance of the transport infrastructure. He said PTSC has endured repeated acts of vandalism and theft on buses, bus stops and other properties. He urged commuters, especially children and some adults who are culprits, to stop disgracing the buses. The PTSC’s chief executive, Edison Isaac, told Newsday there were no imminent plans to raise bus fares. The current fleet of PTSC buses is 82, excluding the 12 new buses. In his address, Works Minister Colm Imbert said plans to increase expansion and improve PTSC’s service were being worked on. He said these included the consideration of buying 36 new conventional buses for the main routes to replace the existing Thomas and Cummins buses. He said funds are also being sought to obtain 50 rural transport buses and an additional 15 articulated buses to supplement services along the East/West and North/South corridors.
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"Stop vandalising the buses"