Tougher stance on derelict vehicles, illegal parking coming

The government is stepping up enforcement against the illegal dumping of derelict vehicles and the unlawful parking of heavy-duty trucks and equipment on public roadways, through tougher penalties and increased collaboration with the Guyana Police Force.

Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill said the ministry has been aggressively removing abandoned and derelict vehicles from roadways, but repeat offenders continue to pose a major challenge.

“The ministry has been very aggressive as it relates to the removal of derelicts, but we are also overwhelmed by the volume and the repeat offenders,” Edghill said. He affirmed that the government is taking a more firm stance on the issue.

According to the minister, the Guyana Police Force has been working closely with the ministry to enforce the law. So far, about 50 individuals have been charged and brought before the courts, while approximately 150 others have received warnings to remove their vehicles or other obstructions from public roadways.

Edghill announced that enforcement efforts will now intensify. Anyone who dumps or stores derelict vehicles in areas that have already been cleared will face legal action.

“I am announcing publicly and giving notice: if you dump derelict vehicles, we will investigate who did it, identify the owners, and you will face the court,” the minister warned.

He said the government will also crack down on people who illegally park trailers, trucks and heavy-duty equipment along public roads, citing provisions under the Road Act, Chapter 51:01, and the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 51:02.

As part of the expanded enforcement campaign, the government has procured 400 wheel clamps, which will be handed over to the Guyana Police Force for use against offending vehicles.

Edghill also warned truck operators that vehicles exceeding the legal 15-tonne axle weight limit will be clamped, detained and could result in court charges.

Similarly, trailers and heavy-duty equipment parked on roadways in a manner that poses a danger to other motorists will be clamped, removed where necessary and owners will be required to pay the cost of transportation before the vehicles are released.

The minister reiterated that parking large trucks and heavy-duty equipment on main public roads is prohibited and said the government intends to strictly enforce the law.

“If you want to continue to be lawless, then the law is for the lawless,” Edghill stated.

He also called on Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) to strengthen enforcement on smaller roads and streets under their jurisdiction.