Morgan urges police to take action against trucks spilling cement on roads
Toriann Ellis / Our Today
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Minister with responsibility for works Robert Nesta Morgan is calling on the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) to take decisive and sustained action against truck drivers who continue to spill cement, concrete mix, and other construction materials on Jamaica’s roadways.
In citing section 97 of the Road Traffic Act 2018, Morgan underscored that it is a criminal offence to cause materials such as concrete mix, garbage, or oil to be spilt on the road surface.
Offenders found guilty may be fined up to $300,000 or face three months’ imprisonment. Furthermore, under section 97(2), the Road Authority is empowered to recover the cost of road repairs as a civil debt in the Parish Court.
“Our roads are not dumping grounds. The reckless spilling of cement and debris not only violates the law but also significantly damages our road surfaces and endangers the lives of motorists,” Morgan said.
He expressed that the government cannot allow the investments in the Shared Prosperity through Accelerated Improvement to our Road Network (SPARK) programme and other initiatives to be wasted because of the spillage by truck drivers. “We have spent billions on infrastructure through programmes like SPARK and REACH. We cannot allow this kind of carelessness to undermine that progress. People are angry and frustrated by the destruction of our roads,” he added.
The minister also referenced section 253(1)(c) of the Road Traffic Regulations, which prohibits the operation of vehicles carrying goods that are not safely contained or securely fastened.
“I am calling on the police to increase enforcement across the island. Truck drivers and their respective companies must know that if they damage the roads, they will be held accountable,” Morgan continued.
The ministry is urging construction firms, hauliers, and drivers to adopt stricter safety and containment measures, reminding them that their negligence has serious legal and financial consequences.
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