People who depend on public transportation will soon be forced to dig deeper into their pockets to get around in St. Maarten, as a pending hike in bus fares (see Tuesday paper) was announced. Fifty US dollar cents may not seem very much, but it’s still a 50% difference for the current lowest category of $1, 33% for that of $1.50 and even a full dollar for the highest one of $2.
As many have to take at least two bus rides to work or school and again on their way back, the extra cost may easily amount to $2 a day or more, so $10 per five weekdays and close to $50 each month. The latter is not counting other necessary trips including grocery shopping, visiting doctors and pharmacies, paying bills, etc.
Also keep in mind that it regards mainly low-income groups already hard-hit by rampant inflation. However, the same could be argued for bus operators, who have seen prices of auto parts and just about everything else rise substantially.
There are also advantages to users, like a commitment to cover all neighbourhoods including Pointe Blanche and Sucker Garden where reliable service is sorely lacking. A bus terminal in Philipsburg should improve matters too.
Exactly when the planned increase becomes reality remains to be seen, as this obviously cannot be done retroactively. Under the present circumstances, however, few will ultimately oppose such a move.
There simply appears to be no way to avoid it.
