Commuters are raising concerns after reports that some bus operators have increased fares without government approval. One passenger told News Five they were charged five dollars for a regular Belmopan run that should cost four. Express service is normally priced at $5. The passenger provided a receipt and is now questioning why some operators appear to be charging higher fares despite government statements that no increase has been approved.
On Monday, independent bus operators told News Five that they were preparing to write to the Office of the Prime Minister, saying they feel the Ministry of Transport is not addressing their concerns. Operators also expressed concern that without fare increases or financial relief, they may be pushed toward joining the newly formed National Bus Company (NBC).
Transport Minister Dr Louis Zabaneh responded to the concerns, saying that while operators have the right to seek a meeting with the Prime Minister, his ministry cannot grant exemptions on GST or subsidies.
He noted that when the NBC was formed, operators were invited to join and benefit from free audits. Seventeen signed on, with two more joining later, but others chose to remain independent.
“This is not a forced nationalisation,” Zabaneh said. “If you say you can stand on your own, then we respect that very position that they said they will be standing on their own.”
The association has warned that without government relief, many of its members may not be able to continue operating beyond this week.
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