The Editor, Sir:

For years, motorists passing through Old Harbour experienced great delays. Contributing factors were indisciplined taxi and bus operators, vending, uneducated pedestrians, unpaved roadways and irregular policing.

The condition has now reached unparalleled proportions. Traffic travelling easterly towards Kingston experience up to an hour's delay between Bodles and Church Pen. Commuters trying to reach Norman Manley Airport or regular work have to factor in this delay. Commuters travelling in the opposite direction fare no better.

The authorities have tried various methods to remedy the situation, to no avail. Bus and taxi operators ignore the feeble efforts of the police. When the perpetrators see the uniformed men and women, they conform to the rules of the road. However, as soon as the lawmen are not visible, these drivers make a U-turn at the clock and stop in the middle of the road to allow passengers to disembark and enter their vehicles. These actions slow the line of traffic.

Lawless vendors

The vendors monopolise the sidewalks and piazzas. Pedestrians are forced to walk in the road because the sellers spread their wares where pedestrians should walk. As these sellers see the police approaching they grab their wares and flee. Sometimes the lawmen seize the goods and charge them or they appear in court. However, within a short period of time these lawless vendors are back on the road again.

Unruly and inconsiderate pedestrians contribute greatly to the traffic jam in Old Harbour. When I was a child, I played the game 'Room for rent, apply within, when I run out and you run in'. This is how adults, as well as students, cross the public thoroughfare. When one stream of pedestrians crosses to the other side of the road, then the other side crosses. Vehicular traffic becomes stationary. What can be done to alleviate this annoying condition in Old Harbour?

Discipline lacking

If the reins of power are held rigidly, then driving through Old Harbour will become a pleasure again. The infrastructure is in place. Two municipal parks have been built. The roads have been paved properly. Traffic lights have been installed, lanes have been highlighted and, most important, the police are visible. What more can the inhabitants of Old Harbour and friends who drive through ask for? Discipline. That is so lacking.

I am suggesting that the army be deployed in the area as soon as the traffic lights are commissioned into use. They should remain until a smooth transition is completed. After this, hit the perpetrators where it hurts: in their pockets. Seize vehicles for up to six months and charge both the drivers and the owners hefty fees. Law and order must be maintained.

I am, etc.

ANNOYED

Old Harbour

St Catherine