PPV operators get long-awaited 16% fare increase

Public passenger vehicle (PPV) operators are finally getting the long-awaited fare increase they have been demanding for months, with commuters set to pay more starting today, June 2.

Transport Minister Daryl Vaz announced this morning that Cabinet approved a 16 per cent fare increase for the sector following discussions between the Government and transport stakeholders.

However, instead of a one-time jump, the increase will be rolled out in two phases.

Under the arrangement, commuters will see an initial eight per cent increase take effect today, with another eight per cent increase scheduled for July.

According to Vaz, the Government decided against implementing the full increase at once out of concern for the impact it could have on inflation and commuters already struggling with rising costs of living.

“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,” Vaz said.

He explained that the staggered increase is aimed at balancing the mounting financial pressures facing taxi and bus operators while easing the burden on the travelling public.

PPV operators have been lobbying for the increase since April 2024, arguing that soaring fuel prices, maintenance expenses and other operational costs have been cutting deeply into their earnings.

The fare adjustment officially takes effect across the public transportation sector beginning today.

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