WILLEMSTAD - ABC Bus Company is set to begin installing air conditioning in its buses after receiving complaints from both drivers and passengers about the extreme heat in recent days.
John Cijntje, Director of ABC Bus Company, confirmed to the morning newspaper Èxtra that the company is working to install air conditioning as soon as possible, following concerns raised by the UGTK/CADMU union regarding the high temperatures on board the buses.
Installing air conditioning in the company’s current fleet of 23 buses comes with significant costs, according to Cijntje. Only eleven of the buses are technically capable of being retrofitted with air conditioning, which would require an investment of around 100,000 guilders.
Additionally, the use of air conditioning will lead to higher fuel costs, which could increase by up to 30% per year, amounting to over 400,000 guilders in extra expenses.
Cijntje also confirmed that a request has already been submitted to the government to cover these additional costs. Discussions have been held with officials to explore funding options.
In November, ABC Bus Company expects to receive five new buses, all equipped with air conditioning. These buses were not part of the initial budget, but steps have been taken to ensure they can be added to the fleet.
"Air conditioning in the buses is not related to the company’s long-term vision or future developments," Cijntje explained, emphasizing that management continues to seek solutions to improve working conditions for staff and enhance passenger comfort.