THE bus fare of Durban Transport buses will increase by nine percent from 1 April.
This was approved by the municipal EXCO on 23 February. The decision was taken in light of the city not implementing any fee increases last year.
A report before the EXCO outlined the reasons for the increase and how the figure of nine percent was reached.
The report stated that while issues of fare increases were sensitive, it was essential to cover the operating costs of the bus service operator to ensure they are able to maintain the current service levels under increasing costs.
It further stated that the recommended fare increase has been kept to a minimum to avoid a detrimental effect on commuters while at the same time allow the operator to recover the operating costs.
While the report recommended that the fee increases be implemented by 1 March, the committee decided that it should be implemented a month later, 1 April, to adequately inform residents of the increase.
A contract between the city and bus operator, Tansnat, signed in 2009, allows for an annual bus fare increase with a minimum of the escalation for that particular year.
To reach the current fee increase figure, the eThekwini Transport Authority commissioned an independent assessment of the actual cost increase in fuel, labour and other operating costs. Transport Economic Support Services conducted the assessment and recommended the fare increase percentage.
City manager, Sibusiso Sithole, said a fee increase was not implemented in the past year although it was provided for in the contract that every year there will be a reasonable increase. He said this increase was similar to other increases implemented for services offered by the municipality.
Deputy Mayor, Nomvuzo Shabalala, said taking the decision to increase the bus fare was not easy. She said it was important to explain to commuters why this increase has to come into place.
“Inflation last year was around five percent and this year is around six percent. So it is 11 percent for the past two years and the 9 percent is under inflation and is a reasonable request,” he said.
