Student Train Service “Operating Below Expected Capacity”

The student train service launched January 10 of this year as an alternate transportation for students in Old Harbour, Linstead and Spanish Town is gradually growing more popular. 

The service has seen over 100 more students since its launch, however general manager of the Jamaica Railway Corporation Donald Hanson, says it’s not enough. With that, taxi operators are now growing anxious as they suspect the trains will soon begin targeting their customers. After over one month in operation, the student train service launched in partnership between the Transport and Education Ministry, has grown more popular, but seemingly not sufficiently.

The president says the number of students who utilize the service has grown from six to an average of 240 per day. However, he says that number is still below the 800 students target set by the ministry and the corporation. Hanson says the service is effective as students are arriving to school on time and it is indeed cost effective as promised.

In a previous CVM Live report, some persons voiced concerns about the conditions of the trains and whether they are fit to transport students. Hanson addressed those concerns stating the trains are operating even better than they anticipated. Meanwhile, CVM Live understands taxi operators in Spanish Town are growing anxious with the new arrangement. 

Vice President of the Bog Walk and Linstead Taxi Association Owayne Weir says they’re worried the government will start targeting adult passengers.  

The cost for the service is $70 per ride.