KINGSTON, Jamaica — In the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, the Jamaican Transport Authority has issued a stern warning to public passenger vehicle (PPV) operators against the unlawful practice of hiking fares. The Category Five storm, which struck the island last Tuesday, has reportedly led to several operators exploiting the situation by overcharging commuters.
Ralston Smith, Managing Director of the Transport Authority, emphasized that such actions are not only illegal but also a blatant violation of commuters’ rights. Smith highlighted that demanding fares beyond the approved rates constitutes a breach of the Road Traffic Act, which could result in severe consequences, including the suspension or revocation of road licences.
“Under section 68 (1) of the Road Traffic Act, operators found guilty of overcharging passengers risk losing their licences,” Smith stated. The authority is also advising commuters to steer clear of unlicensed vehicles, which are often the primary culprits in charging exorbitant prices.
To assist in identifying legitimate transport services, the authority noted that licensed vehicles are marked with red licence plates and a light blue Transport Authority sticker on the windshield, valid until 2026.
The public is encouraged to report any instances of fare overcharging by calling (876) 926-8912 or sending WhatsApp messages to (876) 551-8196. Reports should include the vehicle’s licence plate number, route details, and any supporting photos or videos.