Advocates Urge ‘Pay-Per-Distance’ Model Amid Public Transport Fare Hike

By The Inspirer.

As the implementation of new public transport fares approaches on March 16, calls for a ‘distance-based transport fare system’ are gaining momentum among commuters and activists.

The move aims to alleviate the financial strain caused by the recent 40% to 50% increase in fares following the government’s decision to eliminate subsidies.

Evariste Murwanashyaka, an activist from Umbrella of Human Rights Organisations in Rwanda (CLADHO), expressed concerns over the burden placed on citizens due to the fare hike.

Murwanashyaka emphasized the importance of involving citizens in decision-making processes and consulting civil society organizations to address issues that impact the community.

While passengers welcomed the addition of new public transport lines to improve accessibility, they stressed the need for a fairer fare system based on the distance traveled.

Residents highlighted instances of overcharging and emphasized the importance of regulating prices to ensure fairness for commuters.

In response to these concerns, RURA stated that routes not specified in the released list can still be used by public transport operators, with prices determined by market conditions.

However, the City of Kigali and the infrastructure ministry are exploring the feasibility of implementing a distance-based fare system to address the public’s concerns.

Minister of Infrastructure, Jimmy Gasore, assured that studies and tests are ongoing to develop a payment system based on the distance traveled by passengers.

Once completed, this system aims to provide a fairer and more equitable solution for public transport users across the country.

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