The Consumer Protection Association (CPA) has embraced the new transport fares which were announced last Wednesday. The CPA Representative, Mr. Nkareng Letsie said the new taxi fares are much acceptable compared to the ones which were announced earlier last month.
business
July 20, 2018
2 min read
Consumer body embraces new taxi fares
Nkareng Letsie
He said the economic meltdown does not only affect consumers but operators as well; hence, there had to be consultations with consumers regarding hike of taxi fares. He mentioned that, for economic growth, consumers need good quality vehicles therefore stressing that operators should ensure that they use roadworthy vehicles on routes. He indicated that the 25 to 50 lisente adjustment is reasonable and acceptable if it is done gradually, saying it would benefit both operators and commuters.
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Commenting on the effect of the hike on factory workers and vendors, who are mostly commuters, Mr. Letsie stated that since they are currently paying M5 and M4 for minibuses and buses instead of the legal prices, they believe that even with the new fares they will still get discounts. Additionally, he emphasised the need to support the transport sector for its growth, saying it is the only sector that is solely in the hands of Basotho.
Meanwhile, transport operators last week filed a court application ordering the Minister of Public Works and Transport to issue a list of adjusted fares for different passenger carrying vehicles granted C, D and F permits for various routes in the country. They also wanted the court to direct the respondents, including the Traffic Commissioner, to comply fully with the public transport fares increase agreement for 2018. The news fares, which will effective from August 1, are M8 for 4+1, M7.50 for minibuses, M6 for sprinter and M5 for buses. Lena
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