No fare hike approved for routes 40, 48 – Ministry

The Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce (MINTIC) has issued a statement saying that no fare increases have been approved for buses plying the number 40 and 48 routes.

The ministry said that aggrieved commuters brought to their attention that minibus operators plying the numbers 40 and 48 routes have unilaterally increased fares.  This is with the concurrence of the Guyana Minibus Association since notices to this effect have been posted in the buses.

The statement said that the ministry wishes to inform the public that this action is contrary to an agreed position with the association that fare increases will only take place as a result of an astronomical, prolonged rise in the price of fuel. The ministry pointed out that there is no increase in the price of fuel, nor has any meeting been held to agree on any increase of any minibus fare.

The ministry stated that the actions by minibus operators on the numbers 40 and 48 routes are without merit, unconscionable and unauthorized and urged commuters to desist from paying the fare increase.

The statement said that MINTIC will continue to monitor this development, and will take appropriate action to ensure commuters are not callously exploited.