KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Transport Authority (TA) says it has intensified road operations to address illegally operated public transportation services islandwide following the March 31, 2024 expiration of the majority of public passenger vehicles (PPVs) road licences.

Under “Operation Streamline”, the authority said 914 vehicles were checked on Monday, May 27.  Of that number, it said 355 summons were served, 243 tints and 45 graphics were removed.

In addition, the authority said 12 vehicles were seized for various offences ranging from heavy tints on PPVs to none wearing of uniforms and operating without a TA badge.

According to the authority, similar road operations over the past four weeks have resulted in over 1,577 prosecutions for various offences and 269 seizures for no road licences and operating contrary to the terms and conditions of the road licences during routine and intelligence driven operations.

Managing Director, Ralston Smith said the Transport Authority has adopted a zero tolerance approach in its road operations as it seeks to implement several standards for the operations of public transportation services in order to enhance the safety and security of the commuting public and all road users as well as the reliability and efficiency of public transportation services.

The authority is therefore reminding all public passenger vehicle operators to abide by the relevant regulations as it said those found in breach will be prosecuted in accordance with the provisions of the law.

It said operators found without the requisite licence may also face seizure of their vehicles.

In the meantime, commuters are being encouraged to check for the red plate and TA sticker on the windscreen of vehicles, and to ensure the drivers are wearing their PPV badges as a safety precaution before taking public transportation.

The Transport Authority is also urging operators to renew their road licence using the online application portal at www.ta.org.jm.