By Travis Chase | HGP Nightly News
Minibus operators plying the Route 42 Georgetown to Timehri corridor are calling for an urgent fare increase, citing the rising cost of living, escalating fuel and vehicle maintenance expenses, and the difficulty of supporting their families under the current $260 fare structure.
On Monday, several operators parked their buses and staged a peaceful protest, demanding that the fare be raised to at least $500 to help them stay afloat amid worsening economic pressures.
Driver Eon Benjamin Norton said the current fare makes it nearly impossible to provide for his eight children while maintaining his vehicle.
“The $260 from Georgetown to Timehri isn’t enough. It’s hard to take care of your family, especially when you’re not the owner of the bus and still have to meet a daily target,” Norton explained.
Many operators echoed his frustration, noting that parts, tires, and fuel prices have increased significantly while their earnings remain stagnant.
Driver John Walker added that Route 42 operators have been “failing to make ends meet for too long” and that the government must step in to review the fare structure.
“We can’t continue to operate like this. Everything going up — except the bus fare,” Walker said.
The operators are appealing directly to Minister of Home Affairs, Oneidge Walrond, to intervene and facilitate discussions on a new, fair rate that reflects the current economic reality.
Meanwhile, the Guyana Police Force recently issued a reminder that any unauthorized fare increases will be deemed illegal and operators found guilty can face penalties.
Still, many drivers insist that the situation has become unsustainable, warning that without action, some may be forced off the road.
