Commuters who usually use the Public Service Transport Corporation (PTSC) bus services this morning opted to heed the warnings that bus drivers were on a work-to-rule protest action and sought alternative transport.
In anticipation of this, the Water Taxi Service stepped in and added two additional sailings to its schedule to accommodate stranded passengers. The new sailing times are 9 am from San Fernando and 4 pm from Port-of-Spain. The service already offers six sailings throughout the day. A staff member told the T&T Guardian that while the service utilises two ferrys on most days, a third vessel will be added today, to accommodate the anticipated increase of passengers.
When the T&T Guardian visited the usually bustling San Fernando bus terminal, at Kings Wharf, early this morning, few passengers could be seen waiting on the Port-of-Spain service. The transport hub seemed deserted. One employee, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said by 7 am only two buses, both filled to capacity, had left San Fernando bound for Port-of-Spain. The Coach service, which offers a limited stop service from San Fernando to Port-of-Spain, along with all services to rural areas had been cut for today.
Passengers also jostled each other at High Street for taxis to get to the capital city.
Passengers also jostled each other at High Street for taxis to get to the capital city.
The Water Taxi terminal, however, was filled to its capacity, with signs stating that the 6.30 am sailing was sold out up until tomorrow morning.
A representative of the Transport and Industrial Workers Union (TIWU), which represents PTSC workers, who spoke to the Guardian this morning said a tentative meeting has been set with between the PTSC management, the Ministry of Labour and the union.
Transport Minister Stephen Cadiz has also indicated his willingness to meet with the union.