PWAB wants end to unilateral bus fare hike move

The Bangladesh Passenger Welfare Association has alleged that an attempt is being made to increase bus fares under the leadership of the influential section of the Bus and Launch Owners Association. The organization says that the interests of passengers are being neglected in this.

The organization's Secretary General Mozammel Haque Chowdhury made this allegation at an emergency press conference organized at Dhaka Reporters Unity on Monday (April 20).

He said that while it is normal to adjust the fares in line with the change in fuel prices, the owners are trying to unilaterally determine the fares without representing the passengers, which is unacceptable.

He alleged that the matter is being hidden without maintaining transparency in the fare determination process and the media is often not informed about it.

Mozammel Haque Chowdhury also said that a unilateral decision has been taken in the name of adjusting bus fares after the recent change in fuel prices. He said that according to a fair calculation, it may be reasonable to increase the fares by a maximum of 15 paisa per kilometer in proportion to the change in the price of fuel per liter.

He warned that if attempts are made to set fares without taking into account the interests of passengers, the organization will be forced to launch a strong movement.