Madam Speaker, I am informed that provisions are made under subsection 2(c)(i) of Section 72 of the Parking on a Road as per G. N. No. 53 of 2010 of the Road Traffic (Construction and Use of Vehicles) Regulations 2010, as subsequently amended in G.N. No. 170 of 2010, to prohibit motor vehicles other than a bus to be parked – (i) within a distance of 12 metres before and 8 metres after the bus stop signpost; (ii) 20 metres opposite the restricted length covered in – […]. Therefore, it is a traffic offence for vehicles, other than a motor bus, to park over a distance of 8 metres ahead and 12 metres behind a bus stop sign or 20 metres opposite without the provision of yellow line markings. The rationale behind the siting of bus stops revolves around several key principles that prioritise passenger safety, its efficiency and accessibility within a catchment for promoting the use of public transportation. However, Madam Speaker, from daily observations and past surveys, it can be seen that parking of vehicles at and opposite some bus stops creates traffic problems as well as road safety issues. Parked vehicles can block the path of buses trying to pull into the bus stop, forcing passengers to board or alight further away from the designated area, sometimes on the road itself, which poses a safety risk. Obstructions can also make it difficult for larger buses to manoeuvre and can impede the flow of general traffic. Therefore, the provision of yellow lines beyond the prescribed limitations may be considered at those problematic locations. Madam Speaker, there is merit in the question of the hon. Member as regards if consideration will be given for the provision of yellow lines around bus stops because many people do not know about the distances to be respected. Too often, vehicles have to wait lengthily behind stationary buses alighting or boarding passengers at bus stops because there are vehicles parked on the opposite side of the bus stop, thereby hindering traffic flow. Madam Speaker, I, therefore, believe that consideration should be given for the provision of yellow lines, as questioned by the hon. Member, in extreme and priority places.

37 However, it may not be feasible for all such cases given the considerable impact this measure will have on the neighbourhood. Consideration will be given to the special query of the hon. Member and of the hon. Members on a case-to-case basis.

Yes!

Madame la présidente, comme souligné dans la question, c’est une situation assez embarrassante et qui cause des bouchons et congestions routières. Il est aussi noté qu’il y a des opérateurs ou des chauffeurs qui agissent comme deux fonctions, c’est-à- dire comme chauffeur et receveur, ce qui occasionne aussi ce genre de bouchon et de congestion. J’aimerais demander à l’honorable ministre si cette pratique est légale et courante à son intention ?

Vous connaissez la réponse !

In fact, both of them are illegal. To keep people waiting behind the buses, and the fact that they do not have conductors, is definitely not legal because we are paying; the government is subsidising drivers and conductors and the bus companies in general. Definitely, it is not legal.

Thank you, hon. Third Member for Grand’Baie and Poudre d’Or. AMBASSADORS, HIGH COMMISSIONERS & PERMANENT REPRESENTATIVES OF MAURITIUS ABROAD – QUALIFICATIONS & SALARIES