Those JUTC discounted fares
Published:Thursday | May 30, 2024 | 12:06 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
While I applaud the decision of the Government and the management of the Jamaica Urban Transit Company Limited (JUTC) to drastically reduce all fares on all JUTC buses within the Corporate Area, effective May 13, it is no secret that the JUTC is losing millions of taxpayers’ dollars on a daily basis. The Government has heavily subsidised this organisation, with millions of dollars going down the drain. I therefore cannot fathom why such a loss-making entity can afford such an action at this time. Other buses and taxis within the Corporate Area are charging a fare of $150.
The JUTC is charging students and the disabled just $20 and seniors $25 provided that they use a Smarter card. This is indeed a huge discount and is in no way comparable to the other buses and taxis. JUTC buses are equipped with air conditioning units, in addition to lively music on board. This I find unsustainable and unrealistic. When will we be in a position to make the JUTC profitable? I shake my head.
WESLEY THOMAS