Adjustment of Public Transport Fares Inevitable if Fuel Prices Rise

JAKARTA, KOMPAS.com – The government has assured that reports of a fuel price increase, rumoured to take effect from 1 April 2026, are untrue. Although subsidised and non-subsidised fuel prices remain unchanged, the rumour briefly sparked public anxiety, particularly over the potential rise in public transport fares. “Inflation in the prices of spare parts, which are essential for supporting public transport vehicle operations, has already begun,” said Sani, his familiar moniker, to Kompas.com on Tuesday (31/3/2026). Sani explained that inflation in vehicle spare part prices has been occurring since 2023, reaching 15 per cent. “It has become a major issue with the rising prices of vehicle spare parts, but we cannot adjust ticket prices or freight costs, which would again severely impact people’s purchasing power,” he stated. “Now the government is at a loss due to the war in the Middle East, with no clear end in sight,” he added. “If fuel prices do change, we would have to adjust with a heavy heart, but the challenge would be even greater because I doubt people’s purchasing power will remain the same as before,” he said. “We absolutely cannot compromise on vehicle maintenance as it concerns safety in providing transport services for both people and goods to the public,” said Sani.