Motorists using the North South Highway from Caymanas Estate in St. Catherine to Mammee Bay in St. Ann, will be faced with toll rate changes effective tomorrow (Friday April 28, 2017).

This as a result of a shortage of coins which has forced operators of the Highway to seek approval from the Ministry of Transport, through the Toll Authority, to vary the rates along sections of the toll road to address the issues of inconvenience and possible conflicts.

At a meeting convened at the Ministry yesterday, the operators of the highway indicated that coins in their possession will be exhausted by Friday.

They contend that on a daily basis, an average of sixty thousand $10 and $20 coins are utilized daily.

The adjustments to the toll rates will result in some motorists paying less than the usual rates, while others will spend $20 more, as the rates are rounded up or down to the nearest $50 or $100.

An analysis of the changes reveals that motorists of Classes 1, 3 and 4 vehicles using the Angels to Caymanas, and Unity Valley to Linstead sections, and vice versa, will pay $20 more, while those using all other sections of the Highway will pay less.

The shortage of coins in circulation has been confirmed by the Bank of Jamaica as well as Commercial banks.

Transport Minister, Lester “Mike” Henry, emphasizes that the changes  are temporary until the shortage is resolved.

He is also recommending that the Operators be allowed to purchase coins directly from the BOJ for a more seam-less operation of the facility.