New transport fares with a 15 per cent increment have been announced and will take effect on Saturday, according to road transport operators, after negotiations on the hike in the fares were reached by the unions and the government.
These new fares, beginning on February 26, will cover all commercial transport, namely taxis, intra-city (tro-tro) and intercity (long distance) passenger buses.
“We kindly request all commercial transport operators to comply with the new fares and post them at three loading terminals,” the transport group said in a statement issued after the meeting.
The increment, according to the group, was in line with the administrative arrangement on public transport fares and came after intense negotiations with stakeholders and consideration of the plight of drivers, commuters, and the general public.
It also cited current trends in the international market and their impact on domestic fuel prices.
The decision to increase transport fares has been necessitated by the economic hardship the country is facing and its negative impact on their work.
Various transport associations say the high cost of fuel, high import duty on vehicles, an increase in the cost of spare parts and vehicle lubricants are among the reasons.
“We further request all operators and the general public to kindly cooperate for the successful implementation of the new fares,” the road transport operators further urged.
Earlier, the transport unions proposed a 30% upward adjustment, but after a meeting on Monday, the operators agreed to increase public transport fares by 15%.
Meanwhile, the new transport fare will be displayed at all major public transport lorry stations and bus terminals across the country to guide commuters in their travels.