The Metropolitan Transport Authority (AMET) extended the deadline for the registration of “publicos” with green or yellow tops until 17 October 2005, after chaos broke out on the first day it was applied, causing hundreds of commuters to arrive late at their places of work and study, according to Listin Diario. However, the alternate day schedule for “publicos” is to continue and only public cars with yellow tops can work today, according to AMET spokesman, colonel Damian Arias. More than 250 “publico” drivers were arrested yesterday for not complying with the new measure. Their cars were impounded by AMET. Early yesterday morning there was widespread chaos at publico stops across the capital, when it soon became clear that there were not enough vehicles with green tops to fill the demand. This caused irritation for passengers wanting to get to work, universities or schools. The same thing happened after 5:00pm when buses were crowded with passengers trying to get back home.
El Caribe’s online edition reports that public transport improved this (Tuesday) morning compared to yesterday when the application of the inter-daily system came into effect. Today, only yellow-top “publicos” are circulating and fewer passengers were observed to be waiting for transportation. Some are saying that there are more cars painted yellow than green. Also, Monday is usually the busiest day of the week.
Clave Digital reports that “publico” drivers are shortening their routes to take advantage of the excess of passengers.