Buses strictly for school children

TWO new school buses will begin transporting school children free of charge to their schools around Port Moresby beginning today.
The buses were donated by the Brisbane city council and were officially launched by NCD Governor Powes Parkop yesterday.
At the launching, Parkop blamed the city’s traffic congestion for students turning up late for classes and called on the education board to change class times from 9am to 2.30pm daily.
He said the problem was when students were competing with adults for spaces on public transport.
“There is a need for a reliable, efficient and affordable transport system for our school children,” the city mayor said.
“I assure parents that security personnel will be present to ensure the service is safe and sound for our children,” he added.
Parkop said there were eight buses operational – six for public use and two for school children. Five others were undergoing maintenance. 
Route one pickup and drop off points would be at the main bus stops between 4-Mile and Gerehu, Hohola, Tokarara, Manu Autoport and China Town and East Boroko.
Route two would cover points between Manu Autoport and Bomana outside Port Moresby.
Meanwhile, private contractor 15-Mile Smash Repair would manage the school buses.