The Fiji Bus Association has highlighted that the government’s 22.5% subsidy will provide some relief to bus operators facing rising fuel and operating costs.

Speaking to Fiji One News, Fiji Bus Association President Nisar Ali Shah said the support will allow operators to maintain services, but it is not additional revenue for major improvements.

“It’s a big relief to the industry, and we’re hoping that this will ease our financial pressure, and we will continue operating, and give those services which we are giving to each, our traveling committees” Shah highlighted.

Shah said the Association also faced financial pressure when the subsidy was stopped for a month, and it is now seeking discussions on whether support can be provided for that period.

“This 22.5% is, is, is still a challenge, because, you know, it’s a frill adjustment. It’s not an extra money given to us, you know, whereby we can do, you know, some extra thing” he said.

He added the subsidy is mainly intended to help operators continue running their services as fuel prices remain uncertain.

“It is, it’s gonna help us to continue the operation, and then, you know, we will then see from April next year, and before that, we will start working and work to be done, you know, when we’re approaching the end of this subsidy benefit” he continued.

By: Joeli Ragoneliwa