Bus fares are set to increase by 7% next month. The bus company, Golden Arrow Bus Services says it’s no longer able to absorb rising costs across its supply chain. The company must therefore increase fares by an average of 7% from the first of April.
The Public Relations Manager for Golden Arrow, Bronwen Dyke-Beyer says they’re aware of the difficult economic climate in which our passengers find themselves.
To this effect, they’ve taken the unprecedented decision to delay the standard end-of-year increase. This should have been instituted in December 2023.
“Golden Arrow’s interim operating contract with provincial government makes provision for adjustments to fares to offset operational cost increases” says Golden Arrow’s General Manager, Derick Meyer.
MORE ABOUT: The previous increase
However, they are now no longer able to absorb rising costs across their supply chain and must increase fares by an average of 7% on 01 April 2024.
No longer able to absorb increasing costs
The company’s Dyke-Beyer says the fare increase is needed as they want to maintain the same level of services, which 96% of passengers would recommend to friends and family.
Meyer added, “This increase is not only unavoidable but essential to ensure that Golden Arrow is able to remain sustainable.”
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She has encouraged people to make the most of their product offerings through which they can access the biggest savings. Commuters can buy a GABS Gold Card and load weekly or monthly products instead of paying cash.
At the same time, it’s important to note, that weekly and monthly products are sold at a discount of up to 45%.
Weekly and monthly products are sold at a discount of up to 45%
Dyke-Beyer futhermore said, that GABS Gold Cards, which is a once-off purchase, are still priced at R35. Pensioners will have some good news, as the price for pensioners’ products remains unchanged.
People with queries can contact the Transport Information Centre on 0800 65 64 63.
