Fare increases still disputed

TANGERANG (JP): The increased transportation fares announced by the government on April 3 have given rise to complaints by people in this town located 30 kilometers west of Jakarta.

The announcement, however, has been hailed by public transportation drivers, especially Angkot (minivan) drivers.

The hikes went into effect on April 4, but the subject is still a source of quarreling between passengers and drivers.

A passenger told The Jakarta Post yesterday that he almost accosted the driver of a minivan who insisted that he pay Rp 400 instead of Rp 200 for a ride from Jl. Beringin to the Cikekel terminal.

"I knew the fare had increased 50 percent, but I had to pay Rp 400 which is an increase of 100 percent. This is outrageous," the visibly upset passenger said.

He said he was not the only one to have fallen victim to what he called "unscrupulous drivers".

He said many Angkot drivers have made the most of the government's announcement by raising their fares at will.

"The drivers should be more considerate in raising the fares especially since rental fees have yet to be increased by their employers," he argued.(18/bas)