The Fiji Bus Operators Association has expressed strong support for the Government’s initiative to subsidize bus fares for students starting September 1, 2024.
Richard Lal, President of the FBOA, noted that bus operators have subsidized half of student bus fares for more than 50 years, a commitment not expected from other privatized service sectors.
Lal thanked the Cabinet for their willingness to engage in discussions and reach a resolution. He highlighted that the government’s confirmation entails covering the remaining 50 percent of fares for students utilizing blue and yellow bus cards.
This decision comes after the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission reviewed the existing bus fare system and established a new fare calculation approach that standardizes fares for all bus riders.
The FBOA acknowledged the challenges faced by any government in balancing national goals while managing financial and resource limitations, calling this initiative commendable.
Lal emphasized the importance of the bus industry as a crucial component of Fiji’s economy, serving as the primary mode of transport for thousands.
He pointed out that over the years, the industry has encountered significant cost increases and escalating service delivery demands with minimal government support, despite heavy regulation by government bodies.
Lal also remarked that the bus industry has been uniquely tasked with providing social support for school children through fare subsidies while managing rising operational costs over the last fifty years.