Durban Transport fares increase

RESIDENTS using Durban bus services will need to budget extra for their fares.

This comes the Executive Committee approved the increase in Durban Transport Fares on 20 April.

The fares for bus services, that provides access and mobility to approximately 50 000 passengers daily, increased by 7.7 per cent from 1 May.

According to eThekwini Municipality’s spokesperson, Msawakhe Mayisela, the increase is part of the contract which stipulates that fares must be reviewed and increased annually in keeping with inflation and to ensure operating services are maintained.

Speaking about the increase the eThekwini Mayor, Cllr Mxolisi Kaunda said, “We are aware that given the economic climate, the increase is not easy for our residents but it is appreciated that it is lower than the 8.85 per cent increase the previous years.”

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An Independent Economic Assessment by Transport Economic Support Service (TESS), appointed by the KZN Department of Transport is done annually to inform the recommended fare increase based on economic indicators.

As per the report, the non-approval or non-implementation of the annual fare increase would result in a situation where the operator can claim for financial losses against the municipality, as was previously done.

It was also noted at the meeting that the litigation stand-off between the municipality and Tansnet is set for adjudication in May and plans for setting up an entity to operate the bus service is at an advanced stage.  

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