Ibanda Transport Operators Grapple with Soaring Fuel Costs

Transport operators in Ibanda District are expressing deep concern over the continuous rise in fuel prices, warning that their livelihoods are under threat. Petrol is now retailing at approximately Shs6,950 per litre, with diesel reaching Shs7,150, significantly increasing daily operational expenses.

The surge in fuel costs has led to a squeeze on the earnings of bodaboda riders and taxi drivers. Despite higher expenditures, passengers have been reluctant to accept increased fares, leaving operators with reduced profits. Many riders report that a substantial portion of their daily income is now consumed by fuel.

“The fuel price has become too high. I need more money to fuel my motorcycle, but passengers are not willing to increase the transport fares. If this continues, I may be forced to abandon this work because it will no longer be profitable,” stated one bodaboda rider.

Taxi drivers are facing a similar predicament. They are caught between absorbing the escalating fuel costs or risking customer dissatisfaction with fare increases. Some are contemplating parking their vehicles altogether if the situation remains unsustainable.

“We cannot continue charging the same fares when the price of fuel keeps going up. We may be forced to increase transport fares, but passengers may not accept. The other option will be to park our taxis because operating at a loss is not sustainable,” a taxi driver commented.

The operators are urging the government to intervene and implement measures to stabilize fuel prices. This plea comes amid broader national concerns about rising fuel costs, exacerbated by the Ugandan shilling’s depreciation against the US dollar, which impacts the price of imported petroleum products.

These price hikes have been linked to global factors, including disruptions in oil supply due to conflicts and increased international oil prices, alongside higher freight and insurance costs. The weaker shilling further compounds the pressure on local pump prices, making it increasingly difficult for transport operators to maintain their businesses.

Source: Nile Post