First phase of 16% public transport fare increase takes effect today
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Public transport fares begin rising today, with the first eight per cent of a planned 16 per cent increase in public passenger vehicle (PPV) fares taking effect under a phased implementation, says Transport Minister Daryl Vaz.
The remaining eight per cent increase will be applied in July.
The increase, long sought by PPV operators, has been outstanding since April 2024.
Vaz announced Tuesday that Cabinet approved the adjustment following discussions with stakeholders in the transport sector.
“The Government has decided to pursue a phased implementation of the increase based on consideration for the inflationary impact a full implementation of the 16 per cent would have had in June,” he said.
He noted that the arrangement seeks to balance the financial pressures facing PPV operators with the need to minimise the immediate impact on commuters.
PPV operators have been lobbying for a fare increase for months, citing higher fuel prices, increased maintenance costs and other operational challenges affecting the sector.
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