Bus drivers told to park at designated bus stops

By JASON DOM
BUS drivers in Port Moresby have been asked to park at designated bus stops and not just anywhere that suits them.
National Capital District Commission city manager Bernard Kipit said it was illegal for Route 17 PMV buses to park opposite Tabari Place at Boroko while waiting for passengers.
“The Route 17 PMV buses are not allowed to be parked there, this is illegal, they should parked at the designated bus stops,” Kipit said.
“Buses parked outside the Boroko Market are illegal too. This parking lot should be used by commuters doing their shopping.
“We understand that overcrowded bus stops could be one factor to find other stops but once caught, the authority will make things hard for them.
“The Road Transport Authority is responsible for transport, but we will be working together to address such offences.”
Kipit said they would also work with district courts and police to discourage illegal parking and stopping.
He said penalties would include community work or jail to make sure that rules and regulations were strong and supported the laws.
Meanwhile, Kipit said a fine of between K5000 and K10,000 would be imposed for careless or reckless driving if street light poles or planter boxes were damaged along the main arteries.
“We have so far impound two vehicles and owners are yet to come forward with fines,” Kipit said. “To build a street light pole or planter box costs about K5000 or more, depending on the materials used.”
Kipit said a workshop would be held today to work on rules and regulations the commission would carry forward this year.