Chief executive officer (CEO) of the Transport Board Fabian Wharton said on May 12 that while the board is working to meet the needs of the public, delays can be expected.
He said this is as a result of restrictions imposed by Government to limit the spread of novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
A media release said: “As the phased reopening of businesses and the public sector continues, CEO of the Transport Board Fabian Wharton is today reminding the public of strict guidelines as it relates to commuting.
“With more people beginning to report to work, we expect to see incremental increases in ridership.”
He added: “We are still in the midst of a public health emergency, and, in accordance with the curfew directive, we are reminding persons that it is compulsory for all passengers to wear face masks when riding the buses.”
In relation to commuters’ concerns about the reduced capacity, Wharton said: “We are aware as a result of the passenger limit commuters were unable to board buses at our terminals or on the routes. Given the size of our fleet and the restrictions under which we operate, commuters should expect some delays. Our operations team is working to add additional services on the shorter routes which in turn will have a positive effect on the longer routes.”
Using Bathsheba as an example, he explained: “By deploying a Horse Hill service, which is a shorter service, about 15 to 20 minutes ahead of the Bathsheba service, which is a longer route, we will help increase capacity on the longer route. We will continue to use this measure particularly on our long haul services during peak times.”
He commended the work of Transport Board staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Wharton also thanked members of the public for promptly reporting non-compliance of some Transport Board operators.
“I want to reiterate that these actions are in serious breach of the Transport Board’s code of conduct and I want to assure the public that in each instance there will be a thorough investigation and the appropriate actions taken.” (PR)
