Suva-Nausori minibus users seem understanding toward the change in fares after years of freeze. The president for the Central and Eastern Minibus Association, Naresh Chand, said there were mixed responses from the minibus users about the changes in fare that came into effect on August 8.

Mr Chand said the increment in the minibus fares came after 22 long years and hopes that the public cooperates since times are hard for everyone.

“Since 2000, the fare for Suva-Nausori had been $1.50 and the cost of diesel was $0.65c. But the price for fuel and other car maintenance items kept increasing so this was much needed.”

“On the first morning of the fare increase, there were fewer passengers, I do understand that not everyone was happy with the increase but then by the afternoon it was normal again,” he said.

One of the minibus users, Iliesa Sauleca, travels from Suva- Nausori throughout the weekdays and said the change in price is fair to all drivers and individuals as the cost of living has increased. Mr Sauleca has been traveling by minibus every morning and afternoon for years now.

“I like traveling to work by mini bus every day. I believe we all have expenses so it’s fair to the minibus association as well,” he said.

Another user, Tene Terubea, 44, is positive about the increase in minibus fare.

“It’s kind of tough for us, but I believe it is fair because the fuel cost keeps increasing too. We have to understand that others have to feed their families too,” Ms Terubea said.

Background

Effective on August 8, minibus fares for six routes identified by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) increased.

This came after the FCCC approved an interim authorisation for an increase in minibus fares, following the completion of an assessment of the Minibus Fare Review by the commission.

The review considered the necessary historical data, and changes in input costs such as fuel prices, tyres, consumables, and spare parts.

Maximum Authorised Fare (VIP)

Korovou/ Nausori/ Korovou via Kings Road will increase from $2.50 to $3.20 Nausori/ Suva/ Nausori via Kings Road will increase from $2 to $2.40 n Sigatoka/ Lautoka/ Sigatoka will increase from $8 to $12.10 Nadi/ Lautoka/ Nadi will increase from $2 to $2.90 Ba Town/ Lautoka Town Return will increase from $2 to $2.90 n Ba/ Tavua/ Ba will increase from $2 to $2.90.

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