The Fiji Bus Operators Association has expressed strong support for the Government’s decision to subsidize bus fares for students starting from September 1, 2024.
FBOA President Richard Lal stated that for over 50 years, bus operators have covered 50 percent of student bus fares, a responsibility not placed on any other privatized service industry. He thanked the Cabinet for being receptive to discussions and for addressing the issue.
Lal noted that with the confirmation from the Cabinet, the Government will now cover the remaining 50 percent of fares for all students using blue and yellow bus cards. This decision follows a reevaluation of the current bus fare system by the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission, leading to the establishment of a new fare calculation method that standardizes fares for all bus commuters.
The FBOA emphasized that bus operators understand the need for any government to manage national priorities and aspirations while navigating financial and resource limitations, making this initiative commendable.
Lal highlighted the significance of the bus industry as a critical component of Fiji’s economy, providing daily transportation for thousands. He pointed out that the industry has been dealing with rising costs and increasing service delivery expectations without much government backing, despite being heavily regulated by government agencies.
He added that the bus industry has been uniquely tasked with offering support for schoolchildren through subsidized fares, even as operational costs have escalated over the past 50 years.