Commuters across the Cape Flats are bracing for uncertainty as fears grow over a steep fuel price hike expected at the start of April.

The increase follows escalating tensions in the Middle East, which have sent global fuel markets into turmoil and added pressure on local transport operators.

Also read: Mantashe: SA must act decisively to fast track oil and gas as fuel price pressures mount

The South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) says the situation continues to be monitored, to assess how tensions abroad may impact fuel costs locally.

SANTACO Western Cape Chairperson, Mandla Hermanus, says public transport commuters will be notified immediately should any increases be implemented.

 “For now, we are doing everything possible to keep fares unchanged, but we will have to go back to the drawing board if increases become unavoidable.”

Meanwhile, Golden Arrow Bus Service (GABS) has also reassured commuters that fare increases are not on the immediate horizon. Spokesperson Bronwen Dyke-Beyer says that while adjustments may become necessary if fuel prices fail to stabilise, commuters will be given sufficient notice to prepare.

“We are extremely concerned about forward-looking diesel price projections. We will make every effort to absorb cost increases without raising fares at this time, but the situation will need to be reassessed in the coming months if conditions worsen.”