Minibus operators mock the law

Jun 08, 2011 Letters

Dear Editor,
Over the last two weeks, I read at least three letters in the dailies, regarding a very serious situation in Guyana, but which is being treated quite lightly. The situation is that of the minibus and local transportation.
To this discourse, I feel compelled to add my voice, and I hope, even though already too late, that some changes will be made quickly.
I personally would like to know what is the rule regarding the ‘blasting’ of music in minibuses (and I might add vehicles on the whole). Far too often, passengers are taken beyond their point of disembarkation, simply because the noise emanating from the ‘expensive’ and ‘sophisticated’ sound system blocks easy communication between operators and commuters.
I sense that the operators know that they are in the wrong, because on approaching a police station, or a police rank, the music is either ‘zeroed’ or lowered. I see this as a ‘big laugh’ at the authorities, and a testimony to the stupidity of the police (and the law as a whole).
How difficult is it to simply strip these buses (all vehicles on the whole) of these ‘noise-making’ equipment, after charging the operators of course. Simply put: outlaw not only noise, but the actual system in the buses (again vehicles on the whole).
The second point I want to raise (especially for Minister Rohee) is that of a dress code. All operators (drivers and conductors) should be uniformed. I fully endorse what Mr. Shane Rizwan said. Currently, most operators are unkempt, smoke as they drive, hold a beer bottle, dig their teeth, or eat a meal.
The transportation sector is not ‘pig farming). Another thing that operators do a lot is to mock potential passengers who are on the road. They make ‘nasty’ and derisive comments. This is so disgusting.
Not too long ago, the law enforcers were asked to take a written Grade Six test, and I think that these operators should also take such a test as part of acquiring a licence.
Ryhen King

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