Belize City Targets Derelict Vehicles Ahead of Major Bridge Works

The Belize City Council is once again targeting derelict vehicles as it prepares for the major upcoming bridge works.  The Council has issued a public notice reminding owners that vehicles left out of service for an extended period due to neglect or misuse may be classified as derelict. Mayor Bernard Wagner says their removal is especially important ahead of the planned bridge construction, since abandoned vehicles can obstruct traffic along key routes into and out of the city.

Bernard Wagner, Mayor of Belize City: “We got to press with the railing vehicles, particularly given the fact that in a short while construction will commence on those two bridges. We can’t have derelict vehicles on the roadway blocking, impeding traffic flow. So we’ll be very, very strong and very, very, we’ll move pretty quickly in removing derelict vehicles all across the city, particularly in those streets that are outlets out of the city.”

It is to be noted that under the Summary Jurisdiction Offences Act, the relevant authority may issue a notice requiring the owner to remove a derelict vehicle within forty-eight hours. If the notice is not obeyed, the vehicle may be treated as abandoned and removed without further warning. The owner may also face a fine of up to three thousand dollars.  Anyone who removes or defaces an official notice placed on a vehicle commits an offence and may be fined up to five hundred dollars.  The renewed enforcement follows an initiative launched in April to remove abandoned vehicles from flood-prone areas, including Vernon Street, Gill Street, Sanker Street and Rivero Street. City officials say derelict vehicles can obstruct drains, impede traffic, create public hazards and negatively affect the appearance of the city.  Residents can report derelict vehicles by calling 280-4014 or sending photographs and location details via WhatsApp to 673-9055.