By Aaron Humes: Independent bus operators affiliated with the Belize Bus Association (BBA) have announced they will cease running services starting Monday, April 20, in response to the Ministry of Transportation’s refusal to approve fare increases.
The operators’ decision follows unauthorized fare hikes that have caused concerns among commuters. Fares from Belize City to La Democracia and Mahogany Heights were hiked from $5.00 to $5.50, while the Belize City to Orange Walk route increased from $7.00 to $8.00. The Government explicitly ruled out hiking fares and advocated a “wait and see” approach as fuel prices are affected by the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict.
In a statement today, the Association maintained that “It is no longer financially possible for operators to continue under current conditions.” It added that their decision to go off the road reflects economic realities.
The Association had also asked for exemptions on fuel and parts and Government subsidies to offset the fuel price increases. It is asking to mee with Minister Dr Louis Zabaneh and Prime Minister John Briceño to avoid a transportation crisis.
The National Bus Company (NBC), which began operations in March, controls transport in the West and South with at least 17 former companies; the remainder operate mostly in the North.
The post Belize Bus Association members to cease runs unless fare hike, other measures approved appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
By Aaron Humes: Independent bus operators affiliated with the Belize Bus Association (BBA) have announced they will cease running services starting Monday, April 20, in response to the Ministry of Transportation’s refusal to approve fare increases. The operators’ decision follows unauthorized fare hikes that have caused concerns among commuters. Fares from Belize City to La
The post Belize Bus Association members to cease runs unless fare hike, other measures approved appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.