PUBLIC transport operators in Honiara, including bus and taxi owners, are voicing their strong discontent over the decision by the Honiara City Council for the removal of tints from vehicle windows.
The enforcement of the public vehicle window tint removal came into effect on Monday 2 December 2024.
This condition, formally gazetted by the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, aims to improve the safety, visibility and the overall security of public transport in Honiara.
However, transport operators have expressed frustration, claiming that the decision has ignored the needs and realities of their daily operations.
“This policy is completely unwarranted,” a longtime bus owner in Honiara, Samuel Kale said.
“Our tinted windows not only provide privacy for our passengers but also shield them from the intense sun, which can be unbearable during the day. Removing the tint will make rides less comfortable and potentially drive customers away,” he added.
Many taxi drivers echoed Kele’s sentiments, saying that tints also protect their vehicle interiors from sun damage and reduces heat buildup to ensure the comfort of passengers.
They also raised concerns about the financial implications of the mandate.
“To remove the tint, we’ll need to spend a lot of money on labor and replacements. This is an added expense we simply cannot afford, especially with the ongoing economic pressures caused by rising fuel prices,” stated one local taxi driver.
The new conditions were introduced in response to growing concerns about safety and visibility on public transport.
Tinted windows can obstruct the view inside vehicles, making it more difficult for passengers, law enforcement, and emergency responders to monitor vehicle interiors, according to an HCC statement.
“The safety of public transport users is our top priority,” Mayor Eddie Siapu said.
“By removing tints, we will not only improve passenger safety, but also make it easier for authorities to respond in times of emergency or identifying situations requiring assistance.
“Public vehicles with tinted windows present several challenges. In emergencies such as medical situations, accidents, or security threats, the tinting can hinder bystanders and responders from assessing the situation quickly,” he added.
By JIMMY NOLAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
