Interstate Bus Lines (IBL) will continue to cushion the business’ expenses despite a hike in tariffs for commuters and an increase in government subsidy for the current financial term.
The bus company resolved to increase fares, effective on 1 July, by a 4% average for both multi-journey tickets and cash fares.
The company announced on Friday, 21 June, a new hike (R11), saying the adjustment was part of contractual obligations as approved by the Department of Community Safety, Roads and Transport.
The approved increase is lower than the three previous years’ and lower than the expected 6% to enable the company offset Z the ever-rising fuel and maintenance expenses.
The bus company’s tariff increases have remained below 7,5% since commuters violently revolted in 2017 against the company’s proposed hike. Passengers lamented the hike was not affordable.
The company was forced to cut the hike by 2,5% during the year in question, in reaction to the revolt by commuters in the greater Mangaung, Botshabelo, Thaba Nchu and Bloemfontein.
George Mokgothu, IBL chairperson, cited reasons for the increase to be an average inflation rate and rising operation costs, which are aggravated by poor road infrastructure challenges and ageing facilities.
“Despite requesting a higher fare increase to maintain our current level of services, we have worked hard to keep the fare increase as low as possible,” said Mokgothu.
“The IBL remains committed to closely monitoring our expenses and consulting with the relevant authorities if further changes are needed.”
He has encouraged all passengers to visit the IBL’s ticketing facilities, official website, and social media platforms to familiarise themselves with the revised fare structure.
