By Omotayo Bernard, Freelance writerWESTERN BUREAU:
INDISCIPLINE AMONG motorists and lack of proper infrastructure are being blamed for the severe traffic congestion on the streets of Montego Bay.
The blatant disregard for the traffic laws by some motorists has worsened the problem for the authorities.
Corporal Frederick Morgan
of the Traffic Division of
the Montego Bay Police Headquarters said one of the major factors contributing to the traffic congestion is the indisciplined behaviour of motorists. He also laid some of the blame on illegal parking along the roadways.
"We are patrolling frequently and we are seizing the illegal taxis," Corporal Morgan said. "Although traffic congestion has somewhat lessened, seeing that school is out, the police are doing all they can to reduce traffic on St. James and Barnett streets."
A lack of proper parking facilities have left many motorists with no other choice than to park along the roadways, often impeding traffic. Only one of the properties designated for use as car parks by the St. James Parish Council, is now being utilised.
RESPONSIBLE
Secretary/manager of the Council, Christopher Powell told The Gleaner that the Council is only responsible for three of the five parks, two of which are still under construction. "The two parks that are under construction cannot be opened to the public until construction is completed," he said. "We are still in the process of installing booths and gates at these parks." Mr. Powell added that one of the car parks will be converted into a municipal park, while the other will be designated for private parking.
