The Fiji Bus Operators Association (FBOA) has expressed its support for the government’s plan to fully subsidize student bus tickets starting September 1, 2024.
Mr. Richard Lal, the President of the FBOA, highlighted that no other privatized service industry has been tasked with subsidizing fares like bus operators have for more than 50 years, covering 50% of student bus fares. He thanked the Cabinet for their willingness to engage in discussions and for finding a resolution to this issue.
Following the Cabinet’s decision, all students possessing blue and yellow bus cards will see the remaining half of their fares financed by the government. This decision comes after the Fiji Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) reviewed the existing fare structure and proposed a new uniform fare system for all bus passengers.
Mr. Lal noted that bus operators find this policy commendable, recognizing the need for the government to balance national interests and aspirations amid fiscal constraints.
Buses serve as a primary mode of transportation for many in Fiji, making the bus sector vital to the country’s economy. Despite being under strict government regulation, bus operators have faced increasing costs and demands for better service over the years, often without adequate government support.
Over the past half-century, the bus industry has been uniquely expected to provide subsidized fares for schoolchildren as a form of social assistance, despite facing rising operating costs.