In addition, Cabinet has approved funding for the conversion of PTSC fleet, which currently runs on diesel, and the procurement of 100 new natural gas powered buses, with a tender recently advertised for the first of 35 of these buses. According to Ramnarine, the renewal will reduce the fuel subsidy, increase the foreign exchange trade, and ensure a cleaner environment. “PTSC’s use of CNG will also ensure citizens benefit directly from the country’s natural gas,” he added.
As reported by Trinidad Express, the new filling station, which is expected to be operational by September when the 100 bus-fleet arrives in the country, will be supplied by the National Gas Company (NGC). “It will feature six dispensers and will be a state-of-the-art facility, which can fill both buses and maxi-taxis in three to four minutes,” explained NP chairman Neil Gosine.
Ramnarine also said that the government will be leading the way with the CNG initiative, with NGC recently issuing a tender for 150 NGVs, and that he hopes other state-owned enterprises soon follow suit. Moreover, NP plans to launch 40 fuelling sites in five years’ time to satisfy a market of 50,000 vehicles.
