There was plenty of traffic on the island Wednesday, with five cruise ships in port. Roadworks that started during the late morning hours in Marigot near the Agrement roundabout did not exactly help matters on the French side.
To add to Dutch-side congestion, Public Transport officials were apparently out checking taxis and tour buses. In some cases, passengers had reportedly even been made to get out and wait for a replacement vehicle.
One could argue that such controls – unless by court order – can only take place when these vehicles are in the street, which usually happens if there is work. On the other hand, in terms of technical requirements they must regularly go through Vehicle Inspection already.
Regarding infrastructural activities, during the high season these should be done in the evening or weekend where possible. As a prime tourism destination, the presence of thousands of visitors is always a factor.
For example, bar/restaurants have also complained in the past about untimely controls during their busiest days and hours, causing them to lose business. Of course, authorities including government inspectors must ultimately be able to do their job on behalf of society under all circumstances, but reasonability remains an important consideration.
