Bus drivers question fairness, PLTA says new fare system ‘not an increase’

March 31, 2026 10:12 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook

By Nicholas Mwai.

Bus drivers have raised concerns over the fairness of the proposed fare changes, even as the Public Land Transport Authority (PLTA) maintains that the new system is not a blanket increase.

A driver, speaking to the Daily Post on condition of anonymity, said the changes do little to improve earnings for those operating in high-demand areas.

“It’s not fair if some places increase and others are still using VT150,” the driver said. “If you look at it, there is no real change at all. The VT150 still covers most busy areas like Freshwota, Malapoa, Ohlen and Anamburu, where drivers actually make their money.”

The driver suggested that a flat rate would be more equitable across all routes. “If you want to change it, make it a normal fixed price like VT200 everywhere—near or far—just like how VT150 is used now,” he said.

He added that if distance-based pricing is introduced, shorter trips should also see reduced fares. “Why is VT150 fixed everywhere now, but VT200 only applies to certain places? If that’s the case, there should also be places where people pay VT100 for short distances,” he said.

Meanwhile, PLTA Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Reginald Tabi said the new fare structure is based on distance and is not intended to increase costs across the board.

“When we put out the information, a lot of people said there would be an increase. Yes, there will be an increase—but only in some areas,” Tabi told the Daily Post.

The CEO explained that earlier proposals to introduce a flat VT200 fare were rejected after public feedback.

“Some proposals suggested making it VT200 everywhere, but people did not agree with that. For short distances, VT150 is still considered acceptable,” he said.

Under the proposed system, the VT150 fare will remain for most commuters within a five-kilometre radius of Port Vila.

“So on that note, we want to maintain the VT150, but use distance in kilometres,” Tabi said. “Within the five-kilometre radius, people will still pay VT150. The only areas that will see an increase are beyond five kilometres. When you travel further, then you start paying VT200.”

Tabi said the changes are being widely misunderstood.

“A lot of people are saying there is an increase—actually, there is no increase. The only change is in areas beyond the five-kilometre mark,” he said.

The PLTA plans to install signage along major roads to clearly mark fare zones, helping drivers and passengers identify when fares change. The rollout is expected once consultations and awareness campaigns are completed across Efate.

While debate continues, the proposed system illustrates the ongoing challenge of balancing affordability for passengers with fair returns for transport operators.