In a significant policy shift, the government has approved an extension of the permissible age for importing foreign-used private vehicles, including SUVs, sedans, and station wagons powered by gas, diesel, or CNG. The age limit has been increased from three years to eight years from the date of manufacture. Additionally, the permissible age for light commercial vehicles, pickups, and panel vans with diesel engines has been raised from seven years to ten years. These changes were announced during the post-Cabinet media briefing held at the Diplomatic Centre in Port of Spain on November 20. Minister of Transport and Public Aviation, Eli Zakour, emphasized that these measures aim to make vehicle ownership more accessible to the public. He also revealed Cabinet approval for establishing a regulatory framework to manage the registration and use of classic, antique, and vintage vehicles in Trinidad and Tobago (TT). Currently, there is no legal framework for these vehicles, which has limited their lawful use and economic potential. Zakour stated that the Ministry of Transport, guided by international best practices, will develop a policy and legislative framework to regulate this sector, starting with a formal classification and registry system. Addressing concerns about increased traffic congestion due to the policy, Zakour noted that vehicle ownership remains a personal choice, and the government is simultaneously working to improve public transport and road infrastructure. He highlighted ongoing efforts to revive the Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC), which had 71 discontinued routes and a severe shortage of buses when he assumed office. Zakour also announced plans for a park-and-ride system, allowing commuters to park their vehicles at safe locations in Arima, Chaguanas, Couva, and San Fernando and take buses or maxi-taxis to Port of Spain. Further details will be released on November 21.