SAIPAN – The Commonwealth Office of Transit Authority has logged 1,205 emergency transports since April 10 in support of Super Typhoon Sinlaku response and recovery, with medical trips accounting for nearly two-thirds of the total, the agency said in a Sunday update.
Of the 1,205 transports recorded as of 6 a.m. Sunday, 775 were for medical needs including hemodialysis, prescription refills, clinic visits, and scheduled appointments. Another 307 were for shelterees, 53 were classified as other, 52 were airport-related, and 18 supported military personnel.
COTA remains activated in support of the CNMI Homeland Security and Emergency Management Operations Center for shelter transportation and other recovery transportation needs, the agency said.
Call-A-Ride Saipan, known as CARS, is currently operating for essential trips only, including hemodialysis, prescription refills, clinic visits, and scheduled appointments. Demand Response services are also available for transport to relief and recovery sites.
Call-A-Ride Tinian and Call-A-Ride Rota, the CART and CARR services, are both fully operational. Reservations for any Call-A-Ride service may be made by calling 670-236-2682.
The Fixed Route Blue Line 1B is operating under modified service hours from 6:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Sunday through Saturday. With some bus stop signs still missing from storm damage, COTA is asking residents to raise their hand to flag down drivers before the bus arrives.
“We appreciate your patience and understanding as we continue working to restore all services,” COTA said. “We will continue to provide updates as conditions improve.”
