Fines mount as more passengers block Metro buses
FOR THE SECOND time in five days frustrated Panama Metro passengers blocked the movement of buses to protest the length of time they had been waiting.
The latest protests took place in Cinco de Mayo on Wednesday afternoon, July 31.
The previous blocking was on Saturday in front of McDonald's in Rio Abajo where passengers waited more than an hour for a bus.
Meanwhile more fines have been levied against Mi Bus, the system operators, who have been warned that they have 30 calendar days to improve frequency. TheTransit Authority (ATTT) suggests that users should not wait for a bus more than 15 minutes.
ATTT director, Roberto Moreno, said previous sanctions had already been paid by My Bus, but the service provided is not completely satisfactory.
The latest non-performance fine was $11,480
The first financial penalty applied first four months ago, was $ 1.148 per day. The second was on June 7 for $34 044
The resolution of the ATTT, dated July 18, 2013, notes that the third ticket was given for recurrence of irregular functioning of the transport system. That is, breaking the frequency with which buses must pass.
Moreno asked users to avoid blocking buses and go to the auditors of the company to make t reports.
Meanwhile, David Ramirez, Movement Users Association October 23, said fines to Mi Bus reflect their inexperience in handling this service. He added that blockings "are expressions of dissatisfaction with public transport".