HONIARA’S public transportation system is a lifeline for thousands of residents who depend on buses to commute daily. However, the ongoing issue of short bus routes has become a major source of frustration for the public, damaging the city’s reputation and highlighting the need for urgent action from the Honiara City Council.
For years, bus drivers have routinely cut routes short, forcing passengers to either pay more for another bus or walk long distances to their destinations. This is not only a breach of public trust but also an inconvenience that disproportionately affects low-income earners, students, and those who rely on public transport for essential services such as work, school, and healthcare. Yet, despite this persistent problem, there seems to be no lasting solution in sight.
The inconsistent presence of city council officers at bus stops only exacerbates the issue. Some days, officers are stationed to enforce the rules and prevent drivers from violating their routes, but on other days, they are nowhere to be seen. This lack of consistent enforcement creates an environment where bus drivers feel emboldened to break the rules without fear of consequence. The irregularity of enforcement shows a deeper issue—one of governance and responsibility. The failure to regulate the city’s transport system reflects poorly on those tasked with safeguarding the interests of Honiara’s residents.
But why should this matter to the city as a whole? A dysfunctional public transport system can have far-reaching consequences for Honiara. When bus routes are unreliable, businesses lose productivity as employees arrive late or are left stranded. Students miss out on valuable class time, affecting their education. The additional financial burden on commuters who must pay for multiple rides due to short routes worsens economic inequality, pushing the city further into a cycle of poverty.
Beyond economic impacts, there are safety concerns as well. Unregulated bus drivers can drive recklessly in their haste to finish routes or pick up more passengers, endangering lives. When enforcement officers are absent, the city not only allows rule-breaking but also implicitly tolerates unsafe practices that jeopardize public welfare.
So, what can be done? The Honiara City Council must prioritize this issue by enforcing a zero-tolerance policy on short bus routes. This requires a consistent presence of enforcement officers at key bus stops, backed by severe penalties for bus drivers and operators who violate the rules. The council should also introduce modern solutions, such as a public reporting system where passengers can report misconduct and GPS tracking on buses to monitor routes in real-time.
Addressing the short bus route issue is not merely about improving transportation; it’s about restoring public trust and ensuring that Honiara’s infrastructure serves its people reliably and safely. If the city wishes to grow and thrive, this is a problem that must be solved—once and for all.
It’s time for the Honiara City Council to take action. Our residents deserve better.
By Laugwaro Tony
