Special Correspondent; Dhaka – Despite previous government assurances that fuel prices would remain stable through April, a sudden price hike announced last Saturday night has sent shockwaves through the transport sector.
By Sunday morning, the impact was visible on the streets as vehicle movement decreased and transport owners began demanding immediate fare adjustments.
The Bus Fare Debate
The Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) held a marathon meeting with bus owners on Sunday night at its Banani headquarters. While owners proposed a significant increase—some suggesting up to 1.50 BDT per kilometer—BRTA has remained cautious.
Sources indicate that due to the 15 BDT per liter increase in diesel, bus fares may rise by approximately 22 paisa per kilometer. If approved:
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Dhaka City Fare: Could become 2.67 BDT per km.
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Long-Route Fare: Could reach 2.98 BDT per km (for 40-seat buses).
Although an official circular is expected this Monday, many bus operators have already started overcharging passengers. On the Farmgate-Signboard route, some buses were reportedly charging 50 BDT, well above the previous 40-45 BDT.
Goods Transport and Logistics Hit Hard
The price hike isn’t just affecting commuters; it is directly impacting the kitchen market. Truck owners have already raised rents. For instance, a vegetable truck from Thakurgaon to Cumilla’s Nimsar market, which previously cost 33,000 BDT, now costs 36,000 BDT. This spike in logistics costs is expected to drive up the retail price of essential commodities.
Launch Owners Propose 42% Hike
Waterway transport is also facing a massive shift. The Bangladesh Inland Waterways (Passenger Carriers) Association has submitted a proposal to BIWTA seeking a fare hike of up to 42%.
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Under 100km: Proposal to increase fare from 2.77 BDT to 3.77 BDT per km.
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Over 100km: Proposal to increase from 2.38 BDT to 3.38 BDT per km.
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Minimum Fare: Requested to be raised from 29 BDT to 35 BDT.
The Consumer Perspective
Mozammel Hoque Chowdhury, Secretary General of the Jatri Kalyan Samity, argued that when diesel prices dropped previously, fares were barely reduced. He insisted that the current hike should not exceed 15 paisa per kilometer.
However, Saiful Alam, Secretary General of the Road Transport Owners Association, maintained that the adjustment is necessary not just for fuel, but to cover the rising costs of spare parts, labor wages, and government taxes accumulated since 2022.
A final decision and official notification regarding the new fare structures are expected to be issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Bridges later today.