April 14, 2026 — In a milestone media release, Tobago’s Division of Public Infrastructure and Transportation (DPIT) is celebrating the first-ever World Public Transport Day by offering a “Free Ride On Us” initiative. For the entire day of Tuesday, April 14, commuters across the island were permitted to travel on all Public Transport Service Corporation (PTSC) bus routes free of charge.
The initiative is part of a global movement led by the International Association of Public Transport (UITP) to highlight the essential role of public transit in connecting communities and reducing carbon emissions. By offering free island-wide travel, the DPIT aimed to encourage a shift in commuting habits, urging private vehicle owners to experience the convenience and environmental benefits of the bus service.
Secretary of Public Infrastructure and Transportation, Trevor James, described the initiative as a “thank you” to the thousands of Tobagonians who rely on public transport daily. “Public transport is the backbone of our island’s mobility,” James stated. “Today is about more than just a free ride; it’s about recognizing the hardworking drivers and staff who keep Tobago moving and demonstrating our commitment to a more sustainable, integrated transport network.”
The “Free Ride On Us” campaign saw increased ridership on major routes, including the Scarborough to Charlotteville and Scarborough to Crown Point corridors. Commuters praised the move, with many calling for more frequent initiatives to ease the rising cost of fuel and traffic congestion in the capital.
The Division has signaled that this is just the beginning of a broader push to modernize Tobago’s transit infrastructure, with plans to introduce electric buses and upgraded digital scheduling systems later this year to further align with global sustainability goals.
