Taxi drivers hope Budget delivers relief from rising costs

Taxi drivers in Lautoka are hoping this week's National Budget will deliver relief from rising operating costs and help ease the financial pressure facing working families.

For 74-year-old taxi driver Manjur Ali, the rising cost of fuel, groceries and household expenses is making it increasingly difficult to earn a decent living.

"Fuel is one of the biggest challenges, but it's not the only one. Groceries and everyday goods have also gone up," Mr Ali said.

He said a large portion of what drivers earn goes towards operating expenses, leaving less money to support their families.

"The cost of groceries, electricity and other household expenses keeps increasing. We have had to be more careful with our spending because the money does not stretch as far as it used to," Mr Ali added.

He hopes the Government will introduce measures that reduce the cost of operating a taxi while also providing broader assistance for working-class families.

Another Lautoka taxi driver, Vikash Kumar, said lower fuel prices would provide immediate relief for drivers.

"Fuel is one of our largest daily expenses. If fuel prices were reduced, it would ease the pressure on drivers and allow us to keep more of our earnings," he said.

Mr Kumar said income growth had failed to keep pace with the rising cost of living, forcing many families to tighten their budgets.

"We have had to cut back on some expenses and be more careful with our spending. Basic necessities cost much more than before," he said.

Both drivers said they would be closely watching the budget announcement, hoping it includes measures aimed at reducing living costs and supporting workers in fuel-dependent industries.

Their concerns reflect those of many taxi operators in Lautoka, who say rising expenses continue to affect both their businesses and household finances.

As anticipation builds ahead of the budget announcement, drivers say they are looking for practical measures that will ease the burden of rising costs and improve the livelihoods of ordinary Fijian families.