Scores of students were among commuters left stranded today (January 31), as some taxi operators in Portland withdrew their service in protest over the deplorable condition of the main road between Port Antonio and Hectors River.

The roadway is under construction, as part of the South Coast Highway Improvement Project.

Some taxi operators say the bad road condition has caused damage to their vehicles, resulting in high repair bills.

Speaking with Irie Fm News Principal of the Happy Grove High School, Monique Grant-Facey said due to the protest, some students from the institution were told to return home.

She said if the taxi operators continue to withdraw their service, it will have a dire impact.

Meantime, Member of Parliament for East Portland, Ann Marie Vaz is reassuring the taxi operators that she has shared their concerns with the relevant government agencies and stakeholders.

She said within the coming days there should be an update provided by the National Works Agency and contractors regarding the state of the roads and alternative routes for motorists.