As congestion increasingly chokes urban centres globally including those in Guyana, the instinct to widen roads or construct new ones may seem like a straightforward solution. However, this approach often serves only as a temporary fix, overshadowed by a critical concept: induced demand. This phenomenon—wherein increasing road capacity leads to more traffic, not less—was first observed in the US in the 1930s. It illustrates a fundamental truth: adding more lanes invites more drivers, ultimately negating any initial improvements in traffic flow.
Instead of expanding roadways, we should focus on reducing road capacity while enhancing alternative transportation options. Cities can increase overall transportation capacity by reallocating road space for public transit, dedicated bike lanes, and pedestrian infrastructure, encouraging residents to embrace these alternatives.
Imagine a six-lane road where two lanes are designated for public transit and two for bike paths. Such a redesign can enhance road functionality, making public transport more appealing and reducing reliance on cars. Cities like Amsterdam demonstrate that with political will and community support, transformative changes can occur, even in the face of initial resistance.
In countries like Guyana, where urban planning has historically lagged, it is time to rethink transportation strategies. The development of infrastructure like Heroes Highway, aimed at alleviating congestion on the East Bank Public Road, exemplifies how new roads can quickly become saturated as more drivers take advantage of them. The Road Safety Council’s advocacy for realigning enforcement teams to reflect the evolving road network highlights the necessity of adapting our approach as new highways and corridors emerge.
Guyana’s public transportation system faces severe challenges, particularly due to the rampant misconduct of minibus operators. Corruption within law enforcement, where some officers accept bribes and overlook traffic violations, exacerbates the issue. This has fostered a culture of recklessness, leaving commuters vulnerable to overcrowded buses, loud music, and negligent driving.
A 2015 survey by the Ministry of Public Works revealed that only 41 percent of commuters expressed satisfaction with public transport, citing numerous issues from safety to accessibility. Despite these glaring problems, a notable lack of accountability among minibus owners and operators persists, as they impose unrealistic financial targets on drivers, which encourages unsafe driving practices.
With nearly 10,000 new vehicles recently entering Guyana in just four months, the urgency for reforming public transportation has never been greater. In 2023, Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill stated that no discussions were occurring in government regarding these critical issues, even as the road network strains under an ever-expanding fleet of vehicles, exacerbating congestion and pollution.
The benefits of a robust, non-partisan public bus system extend far beyond mere convenience. For vulnerable populations such as the elderly, disabled, and schoolchildren, reliable transportation is a lifeline to essential services and opportunities. Yet far too often, these individuals are left stranded or marginalized by an inadequate and unreliable minibus service. Some may argue that better roads are needed to accommodate larger buses, but it’s essential to remember that these buses operated effectively in previous decades without the need for extensive infrastructure.
Reintroducing larger buses would not only expand public transportation options but also enhance safety for many passengers. With larger vehicles, travelers may feel more secure, potentially inspiring minibus operators to adopt more responsible behaviours. Moreover, an effective public transport system can yield significant economic and environmental benefits. By reducing reliance on private vehicles, it can ease congestion, lower emissions, and improve air quality. Additionally, it can facilitate access to employment and education, fostering economic growth and social mobility across communities.
A recent survey by this writer among 80 random respondents regarding the implementation of dedicated lanes for public transportation, bicycles, and motorbikes in Georgetown revealed a range of concerns. Many respondents highlighted the lack of police enforcement, expressing doubt that the lanes would be used properly due to the existing mediocre law enforcement in Guyana. Instances of buses and other vehicles abusing these lanes led to frustration among road users.
Concerns also arose about the practicality of dedicated lanes, with questions about sufficient space or proper barriers to separate them from vehicular traffic. Some respondents emphasized that adherence to traffic rules is the real issue. While support for the initiative exists, there is a clear need for robust laws and enforcement measures to ensure compliance. Calls for centralized licence issuance, stringent driver’s licence requirements, and improved road network design reflect the urgency of addressing systemic issues.
Furthermore, a cultural shift in attitudes toward road safety is essential, including integrating road safety education into school curricula and providing ethics training for traffic officers. While some optimism surrounds the potential benefits of dedicated lanes, skepticism remains regarding their effectiveness without proper enforcement and broader systemic changes.
Looking to our Caribbean neighbours, we can learn from the organized public transportation systems in countries like Trinidad and Tobago. Their structured routes and reliable services starkly contrast with the chaotic state of public transport in Guyana. Establishing a well-defined and efficient transport system could alleviate much of the daily frustration commuters face and enhance overall quality of life.