The Government is anticipating some improvement in daily commuter travel in Portmore, with the addition of 12 new buses to the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) fleet assigned to the entity’s depot serving the dormitory community.

This follows the arrival of the compressed natural gas (CNG) units in the island on April 10 as the Government seeks to modernise the public transportation sector and alleviate some of the challenges experienced by commuters.

Kimberly Gardner, corporate communications manager at the JUTC, explained that the additional buses will result in a reduced wait time for commuters on routes serviced by the Portmore Depot. 

“The specifications [of these buses] are similar to those already in the JUTC fleet. However, our commuters can expect a smoother ride, cleaner seats, and optimal functioning air conditioners on their daily commute,” she said.

The buses will also allow for safer travel, as they reduce harmful vehicular exhaust gas emissions like carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide and other suspended particles.

This, Gardner adds, “[as] CNG is a cleaner burning fuel and savings from maintenance will be realised”.

Earlier this month, Transport Minister Daryl Vaz, announced that another 100 CNG buses are being procured and are expected to arrive in Jamaica by the end of June.