Public transport strike erupts in response to HCC tinted window ordinance
BY NED GAGAHE
Public transport owners and drivers in Honiara have gone on strike to protest a new ordinance by the Honiara City Council (HCC) requiring the removal of tinted windows from buses and taxis.
The strike, which began Monday, caused significant disruption mid-afternoon yesterday, leaving many commuters stranded and scrambling for alternative ways to reach their destinations.
The protest escalated near Lawson Tama, where incoming buses were halted, creating large crowds of frustrated passengers. Many were forced to walk to town after being dropped off.
The ordinance, which came into effect on December 2, 2024, aims to improve public safety by increasing visibility in public service vehicles. However, the regulation has angered bus and taxi drivers, resulting in city-wide disruptions.
The strike has heavily impacted workers and daily commuters who rely on public transport.
One eyewitness, George Hiri, livestreamed the chaotic scene from Lawson Tama, describing how stranded passengers were left with no choice but to walk.
“This is chaotic. We’ve been abandoned. Public buses and drivers are joining the strike, leaving us to walk to town. Workers like me are severely affected,” he said.
Other passengers expressed outrage over how the strike was managed, highlighting the plight of women, elderly people, and children.
“This situation is unacceptable. Women and children were dropped off and left to fend for themselves. I saw a terrified child carried by her grandmother, crying. The lack of compassion and organization is appalling,” said one passenger.
Criticism was also directed at authorities for failing to communicate with the public.
“The authorities should have warned us. People were confused and angry because they didn’t know what was happening. This could have been handled far better,” another passenger added.
Meanwhile, the Guadalcanal Provincial Government clarified that the HCC regulation does not apply to public vehicles operating within Guadalcanal Province.
“This regulation affects vehicles only within Honiara City. Public vehicles in Guadalcanal are not required to remove tints,” the provincial government said in a Facebook statement.
The statement also urged drivers to adhere to traffic rules and drive safely during the festive season.
