ACIM to hold protest over new number plates

This is to protest against the government’s decision of compelling all vehicle owners to change their existing number plates according to the British Standard with white front and yellow rear plates. Jayen Chellum, the president of the ACIM, stated this decision at a press conference on Friday in Bell Village.

Chellum said that the first communiqué issued by the NTA on April 8 stated that all vehicle owners must change their old number plates with white front and yellow rear plates.

The second communiqué was issued by the NTA on April 11 and stated that vehicle owners must imperatively follow the British Standard but should also mention the name of the producer on the plate.

Many vehicles owners of the country, members of the public officers, Taxi Owner’s Union and trade unionists will participate in the demonstration.

Chellum added that he intends to request a meeting with the minister of Public Infrastructure, National Development Unit, Land Transport and Shipping Anil Bachoo, to discuss this issue.

In any case, even if the minister accepts their proposal concerning the abolition of British Standard number plates, the demonstration will still take place in order to protest against other issues namely soaring price of commodities, forthcoming rise in water tariff and privatisation of the delivering of fitness certificates.

Chellum blamed the National Transport Authority (NTA) for causing a huge confusion among the public and road users in general.

He added that many people had already adopted the new standard and it was only after three days that the NTA stated that all plates should bear the name of the producer.

He said, “We want the government to ban this new British Standard number plate and refund all those who have already change their plates.”