STEEP INCREASE IN BUS FARE TARIFFS

Steep increase in bus fare tariffs is insensitive and counter-productive

The sudden hike in bus fare tariffs introduced by the Tshwane Metro today came as a shock to commuters who rely on public transport in our city. “Lacking any hint of decency or sensitivity to at least inform these commuters beforehand just shows how the ANC led Tshwane Metro lost touch with the people on grass roots level.” said Councillor Justus de Goede. “Even I as a member of the Portfolio for Transport and Roads only learnt about the increase via the media today.” he added.
The DA seriously questions the administrative correctness of the process that resulted in the tariff increase. “Clearly, the way in which this matter is handled by the Metro can only be described as thoughtless and ill-judged” de Goede said. “It is shocking how the lack of leadership by the Tshwane mayor affects effective, reliable and affordable service delivery to the tax and rate payers of our city across the board.” de Goede added.
The increases are considerable and will surely put pressure on people who already struggle to make ends meet. “This is not how you stimulate economic growth by continuously putting hazards in the way of people who struggle to remain economically active.” De Goede said.
“Another concern is the negative impact this tariff increase will have on pensioners and disabled persons who in many cases might find it impossible to come by with the steep tariffs implemented today” said Councillor Francois Bekker, DA member of the Public Transport and Roads Portfolio. “A vision impaired gentleman working for a very small state salary told us today that this steep tariff increase will impede his ability to travel to his workplace.”
The DA criticised the steep increase as being insensitive and counter-productive and appealed to the Tshwane Metro to consider the needs and circumstances of the people of our city with more empathy.

Cllr Justus de Goede
DA Spokesperson: Public Transport and Roads Portfolio
(083 733 2557)

Cllr Francois Bekker
DA member: Public Transport and Roads Portfolio
(073 0876 999)