18 buses lack tyres

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 20: Tyred-out buses are set to cause disruption to services today.

The Department of Public Transport (DPT) said peak services between 4-7pm would be cut due to 18 buses off the road because they need new tyres.

On May 16, Premier Paula Cox announced that Discount Tyre & Wheel would be responsible for providing tyres for the buses.

The Premier said the company would “be the sole supplier if the high performance Goodyear tyres to the Public Transportation Board for their buses”.

At that time Government also awarded tyre contracts to Affordable Tyre and the Bermuda Tyre Company to supplies tyres to the Bermuda Fire Service and Public Works, at which Government says it will save $170,000 over the course of the next year.

The contract is valid until March 2013.

A DPT spokesman said it was hoped a delivery of new tyres on Thursday would get the out of service vehicles back on the road.

He added: “The DPT is closely monitoring the service and will continue the scheduled runs where the demand is highest.

“DPT apologises for any inconvenience that may be caused and will endeavour to keep the travelling public advised.”