32 errant bus firms to be reprimanded

JAKARTA (JP): The authorities will reprimand at least 32 intercity bus companies for their involvement in 47 cases of violating the regulation on fare increases during the Idul Fitri exodus, an official said.

Of the 47 violations, seven were uncovered in bus terminals, while the remaining 40 violations occurred away from the terminals, JP Sepang, head of the city land transportation agency, said on Tuesday.

"Stern action will be taken because several of the companies increased fare prices by 66.7 percent," Sepang was quoted by Antara as saying on Tuesday.

Faisal Amir, head of the Jakarta office of the Ministry of Communications, said that the punishment imposed on the guilty firms would depend on the frequency and severity of the violations.

"Those found with a higher rate of violation surely will be given heavier punishments than those with lower rates," he said, adding that the heaviest punishment handed down would be the revocation of bus companies' operating licenses.

The 32 companies found to have violated the regulation on fare increases include Rosalia Indah, Giri Indah, Putra Remaja, Medal Sekarwangi, Kalian Jaya, Gumarang Jaya, Harum, Aneka Jaya, Trimulya, Sumber Bhakti, Apollo, Sahabat, Batara, Sumber Larees and PO Safari Dharma, Sepang said.

These companies raised ticket prices by over 20 percent, he stated.

Companies who raised fares by less than 20 percent include Sedya Mulya, Suka, Dieng Indah, Sinar Pasundan, Karunia Bhakti, Lorena, Setia Negara, Arimbi, Sri Maju, Bintang Permata, Merahsari, Sari Mustika, Saluyu, Dedy Jaya, Sinar Jaya and Merdeka, he added. (hhr)