Protocol for Toll Road Access by Authorized Aid and Relief Vehicles -Hurricane Melissa

The Ministry of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications wish to advise the public and relevant agencies of the protocol for authorized aid and relief vehicles, following the resumption of normal tolling operations after Hurricane Melissa.

Effective Monday, November 10, 2025, the new protocol ensures that all humanitarian and emergency response vehicles can move swiftly through the toll corridors to deliver essential supplies, personnel, and assistance to affected communities.

Honourable Daryl Vaz, Minister of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications noted that the measure by the Toll Authority underscores the Government’s commitment to supporting rapid national recovery.

“The Government remains committed to supporting relief and recovery operations across the island. We understand that time is of the essence and this expedited protocol ensures that no legitimate aid mission is hindered by administrative or logistical delays,” said Minister Vaz.

Under the protocol, all Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), charitable entities, and international partners engaged in humanitarian work must submit a written request for toll access to the Toll Authority of Jamaica.

Each request must include the following details:
• Date of Travel
• Organization name and authorized contact person (name, position, telephone, and email)
• Vehicle make/model and licence plate number(s)
• Drivers’ full name and licence number
• Toll corridor(s) to be utilized
• Destination or affected communities being served
• Details of any accompanying security escort (vehicle, licence plate, and
• driver)

Requests should be submitted via email to: toll.authority@mtw.gov.jm, and jerome.palmer@mtw.gov.jm; telephone, (876) 929-5119 / (876) 929-6393. Once received, approvals will be processed and granted within nine (9) hours or less, ensuring there are no delays to essential relief missions.

Additionally, private individuals or volunteer groups contributing to recognized relief operations may also apply for toll access by submitting the same information outlined. Each request will be verified by the Authority.

Upon approval, the Toll Authority will issue a Letter of Authorization confirming toll-free access for the approved vehicles. The drivers must present this letter at toll plazas for verification. Concessionaires shall retain copies for audit and record-keeping purposes.

For the emergency and Security Forces – the existing arrangements for marked emergency and security vehicles including police, fire, ambulance, and military units remain in effect. These vehicles will continue to have unrestricted access to all toll facilities.

This protocol by the Toll Authority will remain in effect until government-led recovery and relief operations are complete.

Minister Vaz reiterates his appreciation to emergency responders, utility crews, volunteers, families, the entertainment sector, and corporate Jamaica and other private groups for their ongoing support in restoring normalcy across the island.