BY LYNNISSHA RUNA – SUNDAY ISLES FREELANCER
A public transportation strike commenced this morning in Honiara, with thousands of public buses, taxis, and trucks halting services in protest of a new regulation mandating the removal of tinted windows on public vehicles.
The strike, organized by public transportation owners, drivers, and conductors, began at 9:00 AM at the Multi-Purpose Hall and is set to continue unless the government revises the regulation.
Speaking on behalf of the strikers, Mr. Aron Onla’e, a prominent vehicle owner, expressed frustration with the decision.
“We want the Tint Removal Regulation to be fair and inclusive. It should apply to all public service vehicles, including those used by government officials. If this regulation is imposed only on us, it feels discriminatory,” Onla’e told SUNDAY ISLES.
He added that the removal of tint could significantly impact the comfort and financial stability of public transport workers, particularly in the hot climate of the Solomon Islands. Tinted windows, Onla’e explained, help reduce the heat inside vehicles, improving fuel efficiency and reducing operating costs.
“Considering the climate, our country, the Solomon Islands, is a hot country, which, having to deal with the heat of the sun, tint window glasses is very helpful and cheaper for us, and it reduces the heat temperature that will cost us lesser fuel expenses for a day. But if we just go without Tints, the heat will reduce the cooling efficiency and consume air conditioning, which will affect our takings.
“And on top of that, we paid a big amount of tax, and also 3 to 4 times a year, while the public service and private vehicle owners only paid a lower percentage, and it is very unfair,” he said.
The strike, which saw participation from a thousand individuals, including bus drivers and conductors, has led to disruptions in the daily commute for many in Honiara today. With no official response from the Honiara City Council or authorities, tensions continue to rise.
Onla’e emphasized that their group has already submitted formal complaints to the police commissioner, the director of traffic, and Honiara City Council Law Enforcement, urging them to reconsider the regulation.
As the situation unfolds, there is uncertainty about whether the strike will extend beyond today. Mr. Onla’e warned that if their concerns are not addressed, the strike could last the entire week.
