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Transportation exploitation slim during Carifesta, say Ministers
The likelihood of visitors being exploited by operators of public transportation during Guyana’s hosting of Cairfesta X will be greatly reduced, since according to Minister of Public Works, Robeson Benn, strategies are already being put in place to address such problems.
According to him, the Ministry of Public Works will be working in collaboration with the Police Force, and some associations with similar interest, to reduce any likelihood of visitors being conned should they opt to use public transportation.
He pointed out that, while it is often the trend of some operators to hike their fares from the airport and even in the city, this practice will not be tolerated during Carifesta.
He said that the ministry will be meeting with minibus operators, as well as other operators, to address issues of uncouth behaviour and dress, as well as the display of signs and symbols in public transportation, a matter that will be handled in conjunction with the Police Force.
However, according to Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr Frank Anthony, it is the obligation of the Guyana Government as the hosting country, to provide transportation for the expected delegations that are coming for the event; a move he believes will significantly reduce the possibility of them being exploited.
He disclosed that, in addition to plans to provide a “nice car” for the heads of delegations to move around, the other members will be afforded the use of minibuses.
He divulged that efforts have been made to secure the services of about a dozen 29-seater buses. Bigger buses, such as those that can seat 35, will be utilised to transport members of the delegations to specific venues.
And, according to the minister, it is anticipated that the approximately 2,000 visitors will require the transport service. He noted that about 1,500 persons will be among the official delegation, and another 500 would be coming from the Diaspora.
And while some bus operators are continuing to register with the Carifesta team to provide transportation, the minister said, eligibility will be determined after an inspection of the vehicles.
Once qualified for the task, Minister Anthony said, a training session will become compulsory in order to train people to drive properly, and further to act as guides with a view to identifying historic buildings and sites.
In addition, he disclosed, the Carifesta team is currently contemplating a plan to have a special bus service that will see members of delegations being shuttled from venue to venue with ease.
However, this plan has not yet been considered finalised, the minister noted. He divulged, though, that if members of delegations would desire to use the public service on their own, every effort will be made to ensure that they are advised of the current bus and taxi fares.
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