Transportation fees<\/p>\n
From Media Indonesia<\/p>\n
I appreciate the Minister of Transportation's strong
\nopposition to the proposal to raise bus fares. This is certainly
\ndone for public interest, but doesn't mean the fate of the bus
\ncompanies and their employees is being ignored.<\/p>\n
Unfortunately the problem does not end with the minister's
\nrefusal because the present bus fares have not kept up with
\ninflation. The bus companies therefore become a victim of macro-
\neconomic policy. On the other hand, other business sectors,
\nparticularly powerful lobbies, easily manage the market prices to
\ntheir liking -- sometimes forcing a price change that has been
\nset by the government.<\/p>\n
It is important to a find an equitable solution to the problem
\nof transportation costs. I suggest the government resort to a
\nfiscal approach. The bus companies should be exempted from fiscal
\nduties for the procurement of vehicles and spare parts. The
\ngovernment should allow reduction of vehicle tax, cost of
\ninspection, route licenses and toll road fees. All these rulings
\nwill substantially reduce the operational cost of the
\ntransportation companies as well as the capital cost.<\/p>\n
To make up the losses suffered by the government, an increase
\nof tax on private cars should be considered, taking into account
\nthe type and size of the automobiles.<\/p>\n
Increasing bus fares will only add to the burden of low-income
\nearners.<\/p>\n
ERIZELI<\/p>\n
Jakarta<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/transportation-fees-1447893297", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }