TAXI drivers at Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) have hiked their fares this week, citing an increase in gas prices, among other factors.

At the same time, minibus passengers who travel in the route 42 buses between the city and Diamond, are now made to pay an additional sum on the fare as the bus operators have also hiked the fares to the city.

Reports are the bus fares have been increased from $ 160 to $200. One passenger was furious about the sudden rise in the fare on Wednesday. “Drop to spot is $240, so everything raise by $40 with the minibus, “he said.

Meanwhile, Route 44 minibus operators on Wednesday pulled their buses off the road, citing the high gas prices. Reports are that the operators have raised the fares by $40 this week while some protested that the gas price climbed thrice this month. The hire car and bus operators are calling on the authorities to address the increase in the gas prices.