The police have issued a public statement on the increased bus fares by bus drivers in certain parts of the country and warns that those responsible should stop immediately and calls on the public to report any such actions.
Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Police (COP) who is the Chairman of the Dominica Transport Board (DTB), acting Superintendent of Police Leanna Edwards said that it has been brought to the attention of the COP, that “Bus Driver has increased bus fares in certain communities on the island.”
“Let me inform the Bus Drivers that there is a process by which bus fares are increased. The Vehicle & Road Traffic Act 4650 of the laws of the Commonwealth of Dominica 2017 indicates that the Transport Board has to advice on transport rates, fares, tolls, dues or other charges,” Superintendent Edwards (acting) said.
“Consequently, there must be an engagement with the DTB where a formal request is made and discussions and consultations must take place, and a recommendation is then made for consideration and approval based on these recommendations.”
She warns that “It is an offence for a bus driver to make commuters pay an increase in bus fares without the required approval.”
“The public is asked to report on any incidents on increased rates of bus fares are demanded of them. The bus drivers are asked to make a formal request for any rates desired,” she said.