The Transport Ministry has commenced the process to acquire buses for the second phase of the Rural School Bus System.

The first phase of the system was launched in September last year with 60 buses.

The ministry completed the first phase last month, after the remaining buses arrived on the island and were handed over to the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC).

Portfolio Minister Daryl Vaz said of the 110 buses, 10 were placed in reserve.

He said on a daily basis 70 to 80% of the 100 buses are rolled out.

Meanwhile, Mr. Vaz said the ministry will be acquiring 100 buses instead of the initial 150 under Phase 2, due to the impact of Hurricane Melissa.

Mr. Vaz noted that all 100 buses will be new units.

He said over $2 billion will be allocated to the Rural School Bus Programme in the upcoming financial year.