By: Nyima Sillah
Commuters within the Greater Banjul Area lamented government increment of transport fare across the country.
The new payment scale that came barely after an agreement made between the Gambia Government, Gambia Transport Union and other stakeholders to increase transport fares in the country has caused a lot of argument among various commuters due to the facing economic hardship.
Aminata Fatty, a commuter, described the increment frustrating as the government does not care about the welfare of the citizens.
“Things are already hard in this country price increment has been a norm and the economy hardship is going high on daily bases and another issue fare has pop up again. These drivers have been overcharging us even before these agreements come to being and now that they have the authority, I am sure they are going to make life a living hell for commuters,” she said with disgruntle.
She went on saying “there is no regulations within the garages because most drivers don’t even have a specific garage,” adding, drivers can pick passengers from any point and stop at any point without no reason which can cause an extra amount of fear especially when going places like Brikama or Yundum.
Ali Wadda added: “What is disheartening is that the increment was never address by the government and now they endorse it because they think it is right. There is lack of fuel due to the Ukraine war. I think the government should first set up good principles to regulate the transport union before thinking of increasing transport fares”
“I pay D100 to go Brikama whenever I close from work because there is always scarcity of cars especially around 5pm and you have no choice but to pay just to get to your destination.”
Salimatou Jallow, also described it as unfair and unfavourable to people living in The Gambia especially to the vulnerable ones who always suffer most in such situations.