SAIPAN — The Commonwealth Office of Transit Authority has now transported 1,237 shelterees, first responders, and individuals with medical needs since Super Typhoon Sinlaku activation began on April 10, COTA said in a service update Tuesday.
The count covers transport activity from April 10 through 6 a.m. Tuesday and represents a continued ramp from the 1,205 transports reported in COTA’s Sunday update.
Medical transports remain the largest category by a wide margin at 796 trips, or about 64 percent of all activity since the activation began. Shelter transports account for 314 trips, with 57 transports listed as other, 52 to the airport, and 18 military, the agency said.
COTA remains activated to support the CNMI Homeland Security and Emergency Management Operations Center for shelter transportation and other transportation needs during recovery, the update said.
On the service side, Call-A-Ride Saipan, or CARS, is operating only for essential trips, including hemodialysis, prescription refills, clinic visits, and scheduled appointments. Demand Response services are also available for transport to relief and recovery sites, COTA said.
Call-A-Ride Tinian, or CART, and Call-A-Ride Rota, or CARR, are fully operational. Reservations can be made by calling (670) 236-2682.
Fixed Route Blue Line 1B is running under modified service hours. The Blue Line is operating Sunday through Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. COTA said riders should raise a hand to flag down drivers where bus stop signs are missing.
COTA said it appreciates the public’s patience and understanding as it works to restore all services and will continue to provide updates as conditions improve.
