Honiara City Council officially announces that the enforcement of a new condition on licenses, requiring the removal of window tints from all public service vehicles, will begin on December 2, 2024. This condition, formally gazetted by the Office of the Prime Minister and Cabinet, aims to improve the safety, visibility, and overall security of public transport in Honiara.
The new conditions mandate that all public service vehicles licensed by the Council must remove any window tints before the enforcement date. Mayor Eddie Siapu emphasized the critical role of this condition in ensuring safer and more transparent public transport for all Honiara residents. “This initiative is about ensuring the safety of everyone who relies on public transport, Vehicles must be visible for everyone’s protection,” said Mayor Siapu. “Our commitment to making Honiara a safer place starts with improving the transparency of our public transport system.”
To support operators in making the necessary changes, the Council offers a grace period from November 20 to December 1, 2024. During this time, public vehicle operators can voluntarily remove the tints without facing penalties. “We understand that the change may take some time for many operators,” said Mayor Siapu. “This grace period allows them to comply without financial repercussions. However, after December 1, enforcement will be strictly applied.”
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 the interior. “The safety of public transport users is our top priority,” Mayor Siapu explained. “By removing tints, we not only improve passenger safety but also make it easier for authorities to respond in emergencies or identify 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. Additionally, tints can reduce the driver’s ability to spot hazards, creating potential safety risks. The new condition addresses these issues by making public vehicles more transparent and safer for everyone involved.
The Council has also made clear that vehicle operators who fail to remove the tints by December 1, 2024, will face significant penalties. “We are urging all public vehicle operators to take advantage of the grace period and comply voluntarily,” Mayor Siapu stated. “Failure to comply will result in enforcement action, and violators can face fines of up to $5000 penalty units for breaching the conditions of their license.”
The penalty system is designed to ensure that operators take the regulation seriously and prioritize safety. To enforce the condition, the Council will collaborate with the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF), who will assist in monitoring public vehicles and ensuring compliance in high-traffic areas. “We are grateful for the support of the RSIPF in implementing this condition,” said Mayor Siapu. “Their involvement will be key to maintaining public safety and ensuring that the conditions are properly enforced.”
This condition is part of the Council’s broader commitment to improving public safety and the quality of life for residents. Public transport plays a vital role in the daily lives of many, and the Council is dedicated to ensuring that it operates as safely and transparently as possible.
“We recognize that public transport is essential to our city,” Mayor Siapu added. “We owe it to the thousands of people who depend on it daily to ensure these vehicles are as safe as possible.” Removing window tints is one of several measures the Council is implementing to enhance urban safety and create a more secure, transparent environment in Honiara. The Council is also focusing on infrastructure improvements, increasing security, and making public transport more reliable and accessible.
With the grace period approaching its end, the Council urges all public vehicle operators to take immediate action to comply with the new conditions. “We have given operators ample time to remove the tints voluntarily, and we encourage everyone to take this opportunity seriously,” Mayor Siapu concluded. “Together, we can ensure the safety of our citizens and make Honiara a place where everyone can feel secure.”
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