This decision was made in keeping with the provisions of the Toll Roads Act in order to facilitate free passage for emergency vehicles, relief efforts, NGOs, and citizens assisting relatives and communities affected by the storm.

This follows the government of Jamaica’s receipt of correspondence from attorneys acting on behalf of TransJamaican Highway Limited (TJH) requesting that toll barriers be closed and tolling operations resume.

The Jamaican government also extends commendation to the operators of the North-South Highway for their cooperation and support during this period.

Jamaican minister of science, energy, telecommunications and transport, Daryl Vaz, said: “Upon receipt of the letter outlining a reported loss of J$41 million (c. £190,000) per day to TransJamaica Highway, the Ministry of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications convened a meeting with both toll operating entities to obtain clarification.

“The North-South Highway operators have not made any such representations and have remained fully cooperative throughout.”

““TransJamaica Highway expressed the view that tolling should resume immediately.

“However, I have maintained that the barriers should remain open through the weekend of November 8, as this period marks the first opportunity for relief efforts from eastern Jamaica to reach western parishes following the clearance of major roadways.”