Government Signals New Bus System Amid Ongoing Jitney Crackdown
- NewslineTCI
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
The Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands has responded to growing public concern surrounding recent enforcement actions targeting illegal jitney operations, acknowledging the disruption caused while defending the need for regulation and safety within the transport sector.
In a press statement issued late Monday night, the Premier’s Office said the Government is aware of the ongoing public discussion surrounding the crackdown, noting that for many residents, particularly working people and families, jitney services have played an important role in meeting daily transportation needs.
Officials, however, stressed that the enforcement measures reflect the Government’s responsibility to uphold road safety, passenger safety, regulatory compliance, and fairness within the transport industry.
“The unsafe transportation of passengers in unlicensed and unauthorised vehicles presents serious risks to both commuters and other road users,” the statement said.
The Government also pointed to the development of a comprehensive Bus Transport Policy aimed at establishing what it describes as a safe, affordable, and efficient public transportation system across the Turks and Caicos Islands.
According to the statement, the proposed policy is designed to support reliable travel for working residents, facilitate smoother movement within and between communities, reduce congestion on the roads, improve passenger and road safety, provide clear identification of authorised public transport operators, introduce appropriate regulation and oversight, and transition the country from the current ad hoc arrangement to a structured public transport network.
In the interim, the Government reminded the public that licensed transport options already exist under the Road Traffic Act, including properly licensed taxis and Community Cab services operated by individuals holding valid licences.
Turks and Caicos Islanders were encouraged to view the Community Cab category as an opportunity for lawful participation in the sector.
“It provides a lawful avenue for Belongers to participate in the public transport sector, earn income, and contribute to a safer, more structured transportation system,” the statement noted.
Those currently operating outside the legal framework were urged to regularise their operations.
The Government acknowledged that enforcement actions may result in short term inconvenience for some members of the public but maintained that unregulated operations cannot serve as a sustainable or lawful solution to the country’s transportation challenges.
The statement comes amid heightened public debate over the crackdown, with some residents claiming that reduced access to informal transport services has negatively affected employment and daily mobility.
Officials said stakeholder engagement and public consultation will continue as the formal transport framework is finalised.
“The Government remains focused on delivering a transport system that is safe, equitable, and aligned with national development goals.”