(Jamaica Observer) KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of Transport, Works and Housing, Dr Omar Davies yesterday announced a 25 per cent increase in fares for the public transportation sector. The new fares become effective on Sunday, August 25.
Fares for commuters using the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) will increase from J$80 to J$100.
Dr Davies said that Cabinet has taken a decision to hold the concessionary fare at the present level of J$20 for students, the elderly and the disabled. However the concessionary rate will be applicable only to people using a JUTC Smartcard.
“Although the financial analysis demonstrates justification for an across the board increase, the Administration is mindful of the plight of the most vulnerable and the impact which this increase will have on the lowest income groups. The recognition has led to the decision not to move the concessionary fare from the present level of J$20,” Dr Davies said.
He added that details of the operation of Smartcards will be provided by the end of August, before the beginning of the new school year.
Outlining details of the increase at a press conference, held at the Ministry’s Maxfield Avenue offices, in Kingston, Dr Davies said that Cabinet also approved fare increases of 25 per cent for route taxi operators and rural stage carriers.
