School transport service fares would be increased by 5% with effect from Friday (1) following the fuel price hike that came into effect on Thursday (31) night, the All Island Inter District School Children Transportation Association said.
Its President N. M. K. Harischandra Padmasiri said the increase in Diesel price by Rs.35/- has made an impact on their services.
“When the government reduced the prices, we reduced our charges to provide relief to the parents. However, at this time we are facing serious issues due to the hike in diesel price and charges of other services including insurance,” he said.
Accordingly, the fee of Rs. 5,000/- will be increased by Rs. 250/- and the fee of Rs. 10,000/- will be increased by Rs. 500/-.
Decision on bus fare revision today
Meanwhile, sources at the National Transport Commission (NTC) said the bus fares are likely to be increased with the diesel price hike by Rs.35.
A senior NTC official said if the price of diesel is revised by more than 4 per cent, a revision must be made based on the price formula and added that a decision on the bus fare revision will be announced this afternoon.
Three-wheeler fares to remain unchanged
However, the All-Island Three-Wheeler Drivers and Owners Association said three-wheeler fares will not be increased despite the increase in fuel prices.
Its President Sudil Jayaruk said that they cannot put extra pressure on the people who are already suffering from economic difficulties.
