Passengers angry over illegal bus fare increase

Passengers have expressed disappointment after bus fares along the Morota One and Two routes increased to K2 following the launch of operation [set to start tomorrow] to remove unroadworthy buses from services by authorities.

Many settlement routes remained empty today as a joint enforcement operation by road traffic agencies continued across the city. The operation targets defective and unregistered public motor vehicles to improve safety and restore proper transport standards.

While the crackdown aims to protect commuters, it has caused major travel problems for workers, students, and the general public.

NBC News visited Morota this morning and saw that only a few roadworthy buses were operating. The interval of bus movement is between 20-30 minutes. These buses have taken advantage of the shortage by increasing fares from K1 to K2.

Passengers argued with bus crews, saying the fare increase was unfair and not their fault. However, crews insisted that all drivers had agreed to charge K2 due to the limited number of buses on the road.

Authorities estimate that nearly 90 percent of buses on the Morota routes are not operating, causing the shortage.

Enforcement agencies have confirmed that the fare increase is illegal and have urged passengers to report such cases to police.

NBC News also observed that some street vendors at Waigani and other bus stops were supporting bus crews and acting aggressively toward passengers who complained.

NCD/Central Command Metropolitan Superintendent Benjamin Turi said such behaviour is also illegal.

Turi warned vendors to behave and instructed drivers and crews not to use the enforcement exercise to increase fares and make extra money.

He said the operation will continue this week to ensure all public vehicles meet safety standards.