Minister of Transport Addresses Concerns Over E-Bus Pilot Project in Belize City

The Minister of Transport Rodwell Ferguson has responded to the concerns raised by several city bus operators over the Belize City Council’s E-Bus pilot project. This week, owners of City Shuttle, Lopez Shuttle, and Lemoth and Sons Bus Service wrote Ferguson claiming the electric buses have created unfair competition. According to the group, the bus routes and slashed fares for students have cut into their bottom line. The group demanded profits be returned to stakeholders every month and for the e-buses to not obtain additional routes. Today, Ferguson responded to the concerns and whether he believes they are warranted.

Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Transport: “Well, I was there for the initial opening and the first on the week it was supposed to start and so far the report I’m getting is it’s working extremely well, especially those that are disabled, appreciate the accommodation with the provision for disabled persons. So it’s extremely well what is the beginning of e-transportation in country of Belize.”

Reporter: Sir I think it’s doing well for the residents of the city who have better transportation. I saw that a lot of city bus operators are upset that they’re stealing their customers and lawsuit might be coming to the government. 

Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Transport: “Well that is only logical because when you are in a certain position and you get displaced, you have to figure out how you can provide for yourself likewise and your family. So that is logical, but that is the norm that people will do that. So let’s see what will be the end result.”

Reporter: Don’t you sort of feel bad that you’re taking business away from these local operators? 

Rodwell Ferguson, Minister of Transport: “I don’t know because long before the bus launched the city council was giving the routes. I said this is the route we are going to launch the EV buses and it’s a pilot project and we are hopeful that the private operators find a solution and find a way how they can improve the quality of their buses.”

The group claims the council is using grant funds to push them out of business and take over the local transport sector.