AGGRIEVED commuters are calling on the Transport and Harbours Department to look into the matter of speedboat operators doubling their fares on weekends.Several months ago speedboat operators plying the Vreed-en-Hoop/Georgetown route began doubling their fares on Sundays, much to the annoyance of dependent commuters. On some occasions the boat captains would stop the vessels mid-river and refuse to budge if persons refuse to pay the double fares.
On Sunday last a Guyana Chronicle reporter boarded a vessel en route to Vreed-en-Hoop from the city and had the harrowing experience of having to wait for ages in mid-river, as the boat captain refused to move unless all aboard paid the hiked fare.
On the vessel were a few nurses and three pensioners who were all aghast at the unauthorised hike in the boat fares. The boat captain who refused to give his name, then instructed the bowman to collect all the fares, loudly declaring that those who were reluctant to “pay up” will have to swim to shore.
After quite a raucous exchange, the passengers eventually handed over the double fares, sputtering with anger as they disembarked from the vessel. On Monday last, when the Transport and Harbours Department was contacted they promised to look into the matter and ensure that this illegal practice of speedboat operators comes to a halt.
But this is exactly what officials there said some four months ago when they were contacted on a similar incident, when a boat captain refused to cross the Demerara River unless the double fare was paid. It appears that nothing was done since then, since boat operators continue to overcharge commuters on weekends.
Some boat captains are arguing that on Sundays they have to wait much longer for their vessels to be fully loaded, since not many people travel then. They are arguing that they make fewer trips across the river, which therefore prompts them to overcharge on Sundays.
On the other hand, citizens are arguing that since the boat fares have not been increased by the relevant authorities, they should not be subjected to such harsh and arbitrary treatment at the hands of speedboat operators.

By Alex Wayne