Transport Minister: Forty new CNG stations coming

Approximately 40 NP compressed natural gas (CNG) stations are expected to be opened in the next five years. Minister of Transport Devant Maharaj made this announcement at a CNG station sod-turning ceremony at the Vehicle Management Corporation (VMCOTT) at Beetham Gardens yesterday.

The station in Beetham is expected to open by August 30 and will include a convenience store and service centre. Maharaj said the use of CNG will reduce the Government’s fuel subsidy bill and have a positive impact on the environment. He added that the Government planned to implement a tax credit on CNG kits for private car owners and to remove the importation tax on CNG kits, as incentives.

The VMCOTT service centre was “strategically positioned” on the Priority Bus Route, he said, to encourage maxi-taxi drivers to switch to CNG. Maharaj said the PTSC has two CNG stations and planned to convert its entire fleet to the more cost-effective gas.

Antonia Lucky, NP director, said the use of CNG can reduce harmful gas emissions by 35 per cent. She said there are currently eight CNG stations servicing 3,500 vehicles and that within five years the 40 new CNG stations will be able to service 50,000 vehicles.