KINGSTON, Jamaica — Commuters faced major disruptions on Monday as taxi operators who ply the Waltham Park Road route withdrew their services in protest over deplorable road conditions and persistent sewage issues in the area.

The frustrated drivers blocked sections of the roadway with burning debris, bringing traffic to a standstill in the Kingston community.

According to the drivers, they have repeatedly complained about the worsening conditions but have seen no action from the relevant authorities.

“The sewage is unbearable because the drain is blocked, the sewage is overflowing and the road right now vehicle a stuck in it so we are asking the relevant authority to see what they can do to resolve this problem,” one driver said.

(Photo: Ramon Thompson)

Noting that there are no better alternative routes, while making the point that vehicle parts and repairs can be expensive, another added, “We work in a deplorable condition. We are suffering on the Waltham right now, we need the road to be fixed…It nuh normal to fix the cars out here. We are going through a really bad condition right now. If the road fix today, tomorrow NWA (National Works Agency) dig up the road, and they just throw some marl in there, them nah fix it back. We’re asking for the relevant authorities to come now, today.”

“Why neglect the road? That is my concern. Why neglect the road?…Everyday gas sell, and taxi and bus operators buy the most gas, so where are those millions of dollars that is allocated on an annual basis?” one driver asked.

(Video: Ramon Thompson)