–in push for 100% fare hike

ROUTE 44 minibus drivers yesterday confirmed that they are preparing to strike in an effort to obtain a desirable fare hike.Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle yesterday at the Route 44 bus park, drivers and conductors explained that they gathered last week to discuss the issue of raising the bus fare from $100 to $200.
Drivers said that while some minibuses work directly to Mahaica from Georgetown, the standard fare is $200, but those working shorter distances, for example Georgetown to Buxton/Strathspey, are asking for an increase in the fare because the present fare is considered “cheap” and it is “unfair” for them to be working the road for such little money.
The minibus workers are blaming current economic conditions for their fare hike demands. They contended that everyone has a family to take care of and the present fare is not enough to pay both driver and conductor and in some cases minibus owners.
Drivers and conductors claim that they will not settle for anything less than double the present fare, as an increase by just $20 or $40 will make no difference.
Meanwhile, most consumers are bluntly refusing to pay higher minibus fares, as many expressed concern at the recklessness and rudeness of the drivers and conductors.
Passengers are asserting that doubling the fare will make things extremely hard on them, as it will be financially difficult to travel to and from Georgetown on a daily basis.
They explained that these are the same minibus drivers and conductors who are soliciting $200 fares after 16:00hrs on weekdays.
Commuters are also pleading with the government to introduce a bus service which can be controlled, unlike the present private minibus arrangement.
Travellers have also questioned whether gas prices have been raised or not as they do not see any valid reason for fares to be hiked to that extent.
Representatives of the minibus union were unavailable for comment on the matter. However, when contacted, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Mr. Willet Hamilton claimed that the Ministry was unaware of this situation but assured that the matter will be investigated and dealt with accordingly.

(By Savitri Laikram)