East Sepik PMV operators signal fare hikes amid fuel crises

Public Motor vehicle operators across East Sepik Province are preparing to increase fares by 50-percent to 100- percent citing the direct impact of rising fuel prices.

The operators say the current ICCC approved rates cannot sustain transport operation with the increase in fuel prices.

They have warned that without fare increases, many PMVs will be forced off the road. The proposed price hikes will vary depending on the travel distances, with longer routes, expected to see the highest increases.

Commuters in ESP will now dig deeper into their pockets as transport costs are set to rise sharply in the coming weeks.

Public Motor Vehicle (PMV) operators across East Sepik Province are preparing to increase fares by 50 to 100 percent, citing the direct impact of rising fuel prices.

The Independent Consumer and Competition Commission (ICCC) yesterday announced nationwide fuel price adjustments following the closure of the Strait of Hormuz due to the ongoing Iran War.

However, the ICCC has yet to release updated PMV fare rates.

Operators say the current ICCC-approved rates cannot sustain transport operations.

Commuters in East Sepik are now bracing for the financial strain, as transport costs are set to rise sharply in the coming weeks.

A PMV operator on route 3-7, Carl Carry said fuel price has gone up from K4.40 to K8.40 and it will affect them as PMV operators.

"Comparing the destinations of our route, we cannot move passengers back and forth without making a loss ourselves, we have to charge higher passenger fees, so we also make money." Carry said.