Fewer than 50 buses running as fleet faces ‘mechanical issues’
Dozens bus cancellations were listed on Thursday by the Department of Public Transportation, with the DPT saying “mechanical issues” with vehicles had disrupted service.
The department said 46 buses were in service across all routes. The schedule for Thursday showed 37 bus runs cancelled between 3.45pm and 5.55pm.
A spokeswoman added that reasons for grounding buses varied, but that the “more intricate repairs” were caused by factors ranging from accidents and mechanical issues to usage levels.
“To assist the DPT’s mechanics, a technician from the manufacturer is on the island to troubleshoot more complex repairs,” she added.
“We are expecting a shipment of parts next week. Priority has been placed on returning buses to service to meet the schedule.
“As detailed in the 2026-27 ministry budget, the department will take possession of 20 new electric buses, which are in the final stages of manufacture and are expected to be completed by the end of this month, with delivery anticipated in midsummer.
“The 20 new buses will increase the number in service, and a robust parts inventory will enable swift repairs. We will soon begin recruiting for vacant technician positions to manage the workload.
“The department has cleared out our old buses to make way for the new electric buses. Public transportation mechanics stripped obsolete buses of all useable parts before they were disposed.”
The department apologised for the inconvenience and advised passengers to check the Shorelink app, or the online schedule listing cancellations at forms.gov.bm/Bus-Schedule/Cancellations.
