BASSETERRE, St. Kitts – WORDS of caution issued by the Traffic Department for motorists to avoid parking along the Parade route during the Sugar Mas 43 street activities went unheeded by some and resulted in the issuance of close to 80 traffic tickets.
Between December 31, 2014 and January 2, 2015, the Junior Carnival Parade, the Carnival Grand Parade and the Last Lap Jam were held in the streets of Basseterre and flowed along specific streets including Cayon, Church, West Independence Square, and Fort Streets, Liverpool Row and the Bay Road.
On Junior Parade Day (Dec. 31) in particular, SKNVibes observed that a number of streets, including West Independence Square and Victoria Road, were lined with vehicles even though it was stated beforehand that these would constitute part of the route.
Head of the Traffic Department Inspector Carl Caines, while speaking with SKNVibes, informed that on those three days during the Parades, 77 tickets were distributed, 95 percent of which were issued for vehicles parked in restricted areas.
He said of the number of illegally-parked vehicles, 15 were towed and impounded and the owners did not regain possession unless the $150 towing fee was paid.
The ticketed individuals have 10 days to pay $100 each or they could face prosecution.
According to Inspector Caines’ advice, SKNVibes understands that all impounded vehicles have been collected by their owners/operators.
He said power to implement changes to the flow of traffic, parking etc. rests with the Traffic Department, and if those were to be followed the results would be pleasing to all.
“The Licencing Authority has the authority and the power to have restrictions and have traffic diverted to other areas to ensure the safety of all, especially during Carnival and other major activities when both vehicular and pedestrian traffic increase.
“This ensures that the chances of accident is minimised. We appeal to the public to adhere to these rules and regulations, and if that is done both the public and the police will be pleased with the results.”
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