Route 42 bus operators unhappy with new park
The new Route 42 minibus park (Photo by Samuel Maughn)
The new Route 42 minibus park (Photo by Samuel Maughn)

WITH the recent relocation of the Route 42 minibus park, operators who ply that route are not at all happy with this new arrangement, and feel that the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has done them an injustice.

The bus park has been relocated to High Street between Hadfield and Leopold Streets, so as to accommodate those vendors who were plying their trade at the dilapidated Stabroek Market Wharf.

Some people, however, feel it’s not the wisest of decisions, given that the area is unsafe for conducting business of any kind, as it’s a breeding ground for criminal activities.
An area long known to be a haven for pickpockets and petty thieves, they say these misfits are now finding easy prey among hapless commuters and drivers.
When the Guyana Chronicle paid a visit to the area on Tuesday, one bus driver was heard saying: “We don’t want here! It can’t work; it’s uncomfortable, and everyone doing their own thing!”

Another said that as far as he is concerned, they are being forced to compete with container trucks for space, and that neither party wants to make room for each other.
He says that not only will the situation give rise to corruption, but it can pose a danger as well, as owing to the congestion, there’s nowhere for pedestrians to walk comfortably, which can in turn lead to accidents.

One business owner told the Guyana Chronicle, the development has had a negative effect on his business, since bus touts and conductors often encroach upon the spot he has reserved for customers to park.

Even some street merchants who vend along the roadway complain of having suffered significant loss as well, since the buses are parked right in front of their stalls.
One passenger said, “It is very frustrating, especially after a long day’s work, the distance you got to walk to catch the bus. And it’s very scary in the nights, too! You always got to be on the lookout for these thirsty thieves! “This is nonsense and inconsiderate!”
She also made the point that the M&CC should have first consulted the relevant stakeholders before making such a decision. It was very inconsiderate of them, as every citizen has the right to know what is going on, especially when their safety and security are at stake..(Tamara Tucker)

SHARE THIS ARTICLE :
Facebook
Twitter
WhatsApp

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

All our printed editions are available online
emblem3
Subscribe to the Guyana Chronicle.
Sign up to receive news and updates.
We respect your privacy.