For a third consecutive day, long lines formed outside Licensing Division offices across the country, as frustrated drivers attempted to register, inspect, or transfer their vehicles before facing newly increased traffic fines.
Many motorists complained of confusion and lengthy waiting periods, saying the sudden rush has overwhelmed both inspection stations and licensing offices. The influx follows the recent implementation of higher penalties for expired certificates and documentation, prompting thousands to try to regularise their vehicles at once.
Among them was driver Daniel Ravello, who said he arrived early yesterday at the San Fernando office, hoping to complete his transaction, but instead encountered delays and uncertainty.
“So, it’s a serious thing. I don’t know how they can rectify the problem, but it’s a serious thing. People come to spend their money because of the charge they pick up, but they can’t pick up and rectify the problem. And still it’s a whole situation. So, something needs to get done now, but something needs to get done soon.”
Truck driver Nazim Mohammed said he arrived at 2 am to register his truck, only to find what he described as a disorganised system.
“Well, I find Licensing Office should be a little more better to get the system done. We still have to get it done. And we supposed to be more easy to get the system,” he said.
“We don’t even have a police to guide we. We don’t have like anybody to say well, alright, join this line, join that line. All the people joining one line, and this one line causing chaos in Licensing Office. All below, on the highway, all below the bridge, is vehicle. So, they supposed to be better than this man. We paying we money to do this, and still we getting trouble with this. It’s not fair.”
Drivers said while they understood the need for enforcement, they believe more organisation and support are needed to manage the surge in demand.
