BY JOHN HOUANIHAU
Public buses operating on the Honiara main road resumed services yesterday after authorities mediated to calm tensions over rising fuel costs that prompted drivers and conductors to temporarily halt operations and demand higher fares.
Dozens of buses gathered at the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID) bus stop yesterday morning as operators voiced frustration over the increasing cost of fuel, which they say is severely affecting their daily income and ability to continue providing services.
Chairman of the Honiara Bus Association, Jimmy Carter, said the protest was driven by concerns from bus owners, drivers and conductors over the financial pressure caused by fuel price hikes.
“They said the rising fuel price has really affected their work,” Mr Carter said.
He explained that the gathering was organised without formal notice to the Bus Association, but discussions with drivers and authorities later resulted in an agreement for buses to resume normal operations while formal processes continue.
Mr Carter said the association will now prepare a petition to be submitted to relevant authorities, while discussions continue on a possible review of bus fares.
“In the meantime, buses should return to normal service and should not charge extra fares for now,” he said.
Carter met with the Bus Association yesterday and he will present their recommendations to the Road Transport Board next week.
Road Transport Board Secretary and Land Transport Department Director Leslie Nate confirmed that authorities are already discussing possible fare adjustments in response to the fuel crisis.
Mr Nate said consultations involving MID, the Prime Minister’s Office and Honiara City Council are underway to determine a fair and sustainable fare structure for both buses and taxis.
He said authorities are also exploring legal provisions under the Road Transport Act to fast-track the gazetting of new fare rates if approved.
For feedback, contact: [email protected]
Editor: [email protected]
