Some commuters in Lusaka have expressed displeasure over the decision by the Bus and Taxi Owners Association to hike transport fares for local routes by K2 and long distance routes between K20 and K60.

Speaking to Money FM News in an interview, one of the Commuters Jonathan Phiri said the upward adjustment in bus fares will have a negative impact on commuters that are not financially sound.

Mr. Phiri said it is unfair that the Association has decided to increase the fares for local routes by K2 when fuel was increased by K1.68.
“We are not happy with the hike in bus fares because as it stands, the economy is already biting, so how are we going to survive,” Mr. Phiri lamented.

Another Commuter who declined to be named said travelers will now be forced to walk long distances to get to their destinations because life has become tough for most of them.
“Those who can’t manage to pay the new fares will now be forced to walk long distances and only commuters who are economically doing fine will be using public transport,” he observed.

The Bus and Taxi Owners Association has with immediate effect increased transport fares across the country following the recent increase in fuel prices.
The Association has increased by K2 for all Lusaka routes and the increase on long distance routes ranges between K20 and K60.