TRANSPORT operators plying rural routes have increased fares to capitalise on an increase in the number of people travelling to their homes to spend Christmas with their families.
A snap survey by The Chronicle yesterday revealed that buses plying the Bulawayo-Nkayi route are now charging $80 for a single trip from $60 while those using kombis have to part with at least $120 from $100 for the same distance.
Kombis plying the Bulawayo-Tsholotsho route charge $70. Previously they charged $50. Buses are charging $100 for a trip from Bulawayo to Lupane while those travelling to Binga will have to fork out $200 from $150 for a single trip.
A trip to Halisupe in Gwanda district and Maphisa in Matobo district now costs $100 from $80.
Some transport operators who spoke to The Chronicle attributed the hike to an acute shortage of diesel at service stations which is forcing them to resort to the informal traders who are charging exorbitant prices.
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