Fare increases still disputed

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)