Fares set by government

Ticket prices for travel on public transport should increase by 3.9 per cent, almost double the inflation rate predicted for this year, according to a joint directive issued recently by the Finance and Transport ministries. But in spite of the increase exceeding the inflation rate, it still falls short in the view of many public transport companies, who have been demanding a 25 per cent increase to compensate for losses in their businesses. Transport companies are now analysing the directive before deciding their new ticket prices. It is understood that the government rate of 3.9 per cent corresponds to an average increase and some new fares are, therefore, expected to exceed this level. The new fares will come into effect after February 1.