Passengers who do not adequately utilize the national e-ticketing system for bus services may inadvertently contribute to rising bus fares, according to a warning from the Land Transport Authority (LTA). Chief Executive Irimaia Rokosawa has expressed concern that fare evasion, stemming from non-compliance with the tap-on system, is leading to significant revenue losses for bus operators, thereby jeopardizing the sustainability of their services.
Mr. Rokosawa emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating that persistent fare evasion could force operators into financial distress, prompting them to petition the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) for fare increases. He highlighted this potential outcome by noting that operators experiencing continual losses might be left with no option but to seek adjustments in ticket prices.
The LTA has been facing increasing difficulties in enforcing compliance, as enforcement officers have reported discrepancies between actual passenger numbers and those reflected in electronic records. It was noted that buses are often operating at full capacity while the e-ticketing system shows significantly fewer paying passengers. Such gaps have resulted in numerous complaints and have raised concerns about the effectiveness of the current e-ticketing framework.
Describing this scenario as a “poverty cycle,” Mr. Rokosawa warned that ongoing non-compliance would place further financial strain on bus operators, leading to inevitable fare hikes. He pointed out that although the LTA holds the responsibility for maintaining compliance, the success of the system is heavily reliant on cooperation from the public and key stakeholder engagement.
In response to these challenges, the LTA is collaborating with Vodafone Fiji and other partners to enhance card top-up services, particularly in rural areas, and to promote smartphone-based reloading alternatives. Mr. Rokosawa reiterated the importance of using the e-ticketing system correctly, stating that it contributes to transparency and protects operators’ revenue, ultimately helping to maintain affordable and stable bus fares for commuters across the nation.
This collaboration and a focus on compliance could lead to a more sustainable and efficient public transport system, benefiting both operators and passengers alike.