CROSS-BORDER buses have increased their fares, in some cases by more than double, as they prepare for increased business in the traditionally busy Christmas period.
BATANAI MUTASA OWN CORRESPONDENT
With schools and a number of companies closing, there is usually brisk business by both holiday makers and businesses, and bus operators are keen to take advantage.
A snap survey by Southern Eye of some buses which ply the Bulawayo Johannesburg route showed that some transporters had already increased fares, although others were yet to do so.
Intercape, which publishes fares on its website, says it will increase its fares from R600 to R850 from December 8 for a one- way ticket to Johannesburg.
Greyhound and Citiliner, which presently charge R455 and R420, will charge R700 and R660, respectively.
A ticketing salesperson at one of the bus company offices said there was likelihood fares will be increased even further towards Christmas.
“The fares will be increased, but I am not yet aware what the charge will be,” she explained.
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“You can buy an advance ticket, but it will cost more.”
An advance ticket to Johannesburg from Eagle Liner is pegged at R400, yet a normal ticket costs R330.
A Bravo Tours advance ticket costs R450, while the ordinary one is pegged at R350.
Coach and Bus Operators Association chief executive officer Alex Kautsiro asked for questions in writing, but was yet to respond at the time of going to print.
Cross-border commuter omnibus operators also warned of increased prices in the run up to the festive season, saying they wanted to maximise profits.
