Increase in public transport fares is backbreaking

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Let me express how disgruntled I am towards Parliament for their discussion on bus and taxi fare increase. The minister raised a point where taxi operators have been asking for a raise for two years now. Weren’t they given a raise in 2021 of 25 per cent? I have never seen another sector like the transport sector declaring increase and increase. The average man that doesn’t have a university degree or some form of tertiary certification will rot in this economy.

The minister made note again that it will cost more on a commuter’s pocket and it will be difficult for ends to meet, but we have to treat the transportation sector like a business. Point raised, but what have we been doing for all these years? Commenting unbiased on the topic of a fare increase was not a feasible decision. I have garnered nothing but lack of consideration. Not even three months to process that a raise will occur to make the necessary preparation effective Sunday, October 15.

We cannot say we are a democratic nation yet the only thing that involves public interest is election time. What about other policies that are passing, is our expertise inadequate? After the average man puts aside bus fare 0 to naught is left, so it is only fair to eat bread and air for dinner.

I could elaborate about the increase, teachers and doctors had to strike, neglecting their duties, acting out of profession to secure some form of increase, and it had to reach a breaking point for these strikes to have occurred, yet it was a number one priority to increase bus and taxi fare.

Then we wonder why robberies and certain crimes are on the rise. I am imploring Parliament to revise this decision, the fare increase will break the backs of poor people.

S DAVIDSON