Consumers to prepare for Fare Increases in the New Year!

Warm wishes for the holiday are being given by everyone but I wonder if they will feel the same when increases come on stream next year.Yes it’s a scary thought that more increases are being promised in the new year.This time the increase targets the most vulnerable, those who have to rely on public transportation. Jamaicans who have to rely on public transportation are vulnerable and I should know because until recently I was one of them.Taking public transportation for me, meant rising early, dodging those who push through the aisles, standing in crowded bus stations and how could I forget the interminable wait for them to show up on time.

Often, some problem with seating or ticketing or making change would emerge and the bus would not move until it was resolved which further dented my plan to arrive on time.So it is with great sadness I inform commuters that although there have been no promises of improved service, they will be forced to pay more. Presently, if you want to take bus from three miles to Half Way Tree, you have spend between $80.00 and $90.00. Of course, this is if you can wait long enough. Some people buckle under the pressure and take the ‘robot taxis’. These taxis are famous for driving dangerously but it’s all in the name of getting where you are going fast! The actual increase has not been announced but the JUTC has made it clear that next year won’t be a happy year for commuters.

There are also rumblings among taxi drivers who seem to want to follow suit and raise their fares as well. All around its going to be a hard year but instead of going in a depression, the best thing to do is to spend wisely as the costs will increase. What do you think about the impending fare increase? Let me hear from you!