TENTS will be placed at various bus parks at the Stabroek Market Square to facilitate hand sanitising and provision of face masks to keep COVID-19 at bay.
This was disclosed by Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn, on Wednesday, when he held the first in a series of discussions with minibus operators, vendors, and other stakeholders to address traffic congestion and road safety issues at Stabroek Market Square.
The meeting was held at the Saint Stanislaus College Brickdam.
At the meeting were Minibus Association President, Eon Andrews; minibus operators from the various routes; vendors; Deputy Mayor, Alfred Mentor; Senior Engineer, Kabila Hollingsworth of the Mayor and City Counsel; engineer at Ministry of Public Works, Kester Hinds and team; Commander of ‘A’ Division, Assistant Commissioner, Simon Mc Bean and team; and Fire Chief, Marlon Gentle.
Minister Benn, in his opening remarks, noted that the engagement was geared towards fixing transportation and congestion issues at the Stabroek Market Square.
“It is not our fundamental interest in moving people. The fundamental interest is to bring order, optimal efficiency and safety out there,” he said.
The minister also emphasised the need for minibus operators and passengers to wear face mask in adherence to COVID-19 regulations.
Matters discussed at the meeting included the demarcating of road lanes, implementation of a turn system at the bus parks, completion of road maintenance work around the Stabroek area, and re-installation of barriers at the Kitty/Campbellville bus park.
Several concerns were also raised by the stakeholder such as police relations with minibus operators, touts at the bus parks, “hot plate” buses, and the disrespect for police officers at many bus parks.
Minister Benn assured the stakeholders that their concerns will be addressed as the Ministry continues its stakeholder engagement. He also thanked all the stakeholders for their commitment and cooperation in working towards meaningful solutions to remedy the traffic congestion and road safety issues at the Stabroek Market Square.
