CLARENDON, Jamaica – The contractor of the over US$188-million May Pen to Williamsfield leg of Highway 2000, China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC) says the vandalism of right-of-way fencing on the high-speed road is jeopardising safety.

In a press release on Monday, CHEC urged the public to cease the vandalism of the fencing.

“These dangerous actions pose a significant safety hazard to the motoring public and can result in loss of life,” the release read in part.

CHEC said the highway is a vital transportation route that serves as a lifeline for commuters and business alike.

“However, the ongoing theft and vandalism of right-of-way fencing along this highway has become a major concern. Right-of-way fencing plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety of motorists and pedestrians alike. It serves as a protective barrier, preventing accidents and injuries, and provides visual guidance for drivers, particularly during adverse weather conditions or at night. When right-of-way fencing is damaged or stolen, it compromises the safety measures put in place to protect road users,” the release said.

CHEC said “it strongly condemns these illegal activities and calls on the community to come together to address this issue. Vandalism and theft of right-of –way fencing not only jeopardises the safety of those using the highway, but also lead to significant repair and replacement costs, ultimately affecting taxpayers”.

CHEC’s statement follows reports that at least two motor vehicles, a BMW SUV and a sedan, were damaged due to two stray cows on a section of the May Pen to Williamsfield leg of Highway 2000.

Following the September 14 official opening of the highway, motorists driving on the wrong side of the highway as well as the presence of stray animals, have added to mounting concerns over safety on the high-speed road.

READ: Danger lurks on new leg of Highway 2000

Additional article linked to the story:

READ: Stray animals, fencing theft among concerns on new highway leg