Fiji’s Bus Operator Association (FBOA) is advocating for the creation of a National Transport Commission that would include its members and key stakeholders in the industry as permanent participants. This initiative aims to develop and manage a comprehensive National Public Transport Plan.
Richard Lal, the association’s president, has urged the Minister for Transportation to consider this proposal. He expressed concern that the authorities are attempting to address the challenges facing Fiji’s transport system without adequate consultation with the FBOA.
Lal emphasized the experience and expertise of the FBOA, which comprises companies that have collectively provided public transport services for over 70 years. Since the introduction of e-ticketing on October 1, 2017, the association has successfully completed more than 701.8 million trips. They are well-equipped with practical knowledge that could aid in making informed decisions for the benefit of the Fijian populace.
The FBOA reports that its members perform an average of 1.7 million trips weekly, operating over 1,500 buses and servicing 1,088 routes daily across Fiji. However, Lal noted that approximately 70% of the roads utilized by their buses are unsealed, contributing to high maintenance costs. This issue is exacerbated by the current fare level of $0.17 per kilometer, which has seen only a modest increase of $0.06 over the past eight years, as sanctioned by authorities.
Additionally, Lal mentioned that the association has presented its viewpoints and proposed solutions to various ongoing issues, including concerns surrounding Mini Bus permits, the Public Service Vehicle (PSV) freeze, and the right to object to regulatory variations. Despite these efforts, the FBOA has yet to receive an invitation to engage in discussions with the government regarding these critical issues affecting Fiji’s public transport system.
The call for the National Transport Commission reflects a growing desire for collaboration between public transport operators and government authorities, highlighting the importance of collective efforts to enhance the country’s transport framework while addressing the challenges faced by the industry.