Accidents & Disasters
Island authorities to implement measures after an increase in traffic accidents
Traffic accidents are becoming an issue in San Pedro Town, mainly north of town, where over the past few days, the traffic department, first-aid responders, and police have responded to a series of accidents. A number of these incidents are linked to motorists driving under the influence of alcohol and speeding. As a result, the San Pedro Town Council, along with the transport department and the local police formation, are working on rules to tackle the issue.
Government
E-Governance and Digitalization Unit Supports Belize Motor Vehicle Registration and Licensing System
On June 23, 2021, the Government of Belize and the Embassy of the Republic of China (Taiwan) hosted an achievement and handing over ceremony for the Belize Motor Vehicle Licensing and Registration System (BMVRLS). In 2017, both countries designed the project for an integrated and national transport system for the Department of Transport.
Community and Society
New regulation for golf cart rental owners
Effective August 1, 2021, the San Pedro Transport Department (SPTD) will be enforcing a new rule regarding golf cart rentals. All golf carts owned by a rental company will need to be labeled with the company’s logo/name, telephone number, and golf cart number. Failure to adhere to this measure will result in a fine.
Government
New Chief Transport Officer Appointed
The Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy and Logistics is pleased to announce the appointment of Ms. Dian Vasquez as the new Chief Transport Officer in the Department of Transport. Ms. Vasquez holds a bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science and master’s degrees from the Australian National University in Diplomacy and Environmental Management and Development. She has experience in policy planning, research, and management.
Traffic
SPTC sets restrictions on four and 6-cylinder vehicles and 6-seater golf carts
For the last few years, San Pedro Town has seen growing traffic congestion, particularly downtown. During peak times of the day, it is difficult to find a parking space, and traffic runs in a frenzy. Past attempts to take control of the issue have seen little results. To tackle the situation, on Tuesday, May 11th, the Ambergris Caye Traffic Control Committee (ACTCC) announced that they would not be accepting applications for permits for four and 6-cylinder vehicles or 6-seater golf carts for six months.
Community and Society
SPTC addresses issue between taxi and golf cart operators
The ongoing competition between taxi operators and golf cart rentals is slowly becoming an issue. Both groups struggle to make the most of the little business available on the island. The aggressive competition has resulted in mild altercations. Taxi drivers say that golf cart rental operators should not be at the entry ports (airport/water taxi) but at their respective offices/establishments. The San Pedro Town Council (SPTC) has since informed the golf cart rental businesses of how they must operate within their trade license parameters.
Traffic
Belize Road Safety Project Hosts Second Virtual Defensive Driving Training
The Belize Road Safety Project hosted its second Defensive Driving Training from March 29 to 31, 2021, for 17 officers from the Ministry of Transport and traffic officers from five municipalities. The course also included a four-hour First Responders Training Session.
Traffic
Minister of Public Utilities, Energy and Logistics Hosts Workshop for Transport Department
On February 16, 2021, the Ministry of Public Utilities, Energy and Logistics hosted a one-day training workshop for senior transport officers and motor vehicle inspectors in the Transport Department.
