Dear Editor,
I am writing to express my concern about the ridiculous increase in transportation costs faced by citizens due to the unreasonable fares and practices of some privately owned minibuses in Guyana.
Transportation is an essential service, and many working-class citizens, students, and elderly persons are struggling daily because of the high and unstable prices being charged.
In many cases, commuters are forced to pay excessive fares, especially during peak hours, public holidays, or bad weather conditions.
Some minibuses also refuse short drops, overload passengers, and operate recklessly in an attempt to maximise profits. This situation places unnecessary pressure on ordinary citizens who already face financial challenges due to the rising cost of living.
Although the Government has reduced or removed certain taxes to help cushion gas and vehicle spare parts, some of these privately owned minibuses and some taxi drivers are still forcing passengers to pay more than the usual fare.
For this reason, I strongly believe that the Government of Guyana should implement a reliable public bus transportation system.
Government-operated buses would provide fair and regulated transportation costs, safer travel conditions, and better accountability. It would also create healthy competition in the transportation sector, which could help reduce unfair pricing practices by private operators.
Additionally, a proper public bus service could improve punctuality for workers and students while reducing road accidents caused by reckless minibus driving.
Many countries around the world successfully operate public transportation systems that benefit citizens economically and socially, and Guyana should do the same.
Transportation should not become a burden on citizens.
A Government public bus system would be a positive step toward improving the quality of life for many Guyanese people.