Written by: Sugar Ray Thomas

Jamaicans are questioning the timing of the 8 per cent fare increase that was granted to Public Passenger Vehicle (PPV) operators this morning.

Another 8 per cent will be granted on July 1.

Transport Minister, Daryl Vaz, told a press conference this morning that the phased implementation of the fare increase is based on consideration for the inflationary impact; a full implementation of the 16% would have had this month.

When IRIE FM News took to the streets of Ocho Rios this afternoon, many persons were concerned about the effect the fare increase would have on the cost of living.

Some explained that taxi and bus operators have already been overcharging them since the last fare increase was granted.

A security guard who identified himself as Radcliffe described the fare increase as stressful.

A female resident of Melissa said she is worried about the impact of food and other expenses that may accompany the fare increases.

Meanwhile, a male vendor from Linstead, St. Catherine, who sells items in Ocho Rios, cited the high transportation cost to commute to Ocho Rios daily.

He is calling on the Government to roll back the fare increase.

And, a student who identified herself as Jada said the fare increase was unfair, as persons were still recovering from Melissa.

She said more Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) buses should be introduced to the route.

A woman, who identified herself as Vicky, is also calling on the Government to introduce the JUTC buses on more routes in the parish, given the fare increases.

A senior citizen, who identified himself as Michael, agreed that PPV operators waited a long while for the fare hike, but he said it should be rolled back.