By Ursula Wesenaar |
Durban commuters are preparing for another financial strain as taxi fares across the city are set to increase from tomorrow, placing additional pressure on already stretched household budgets. The adjustment, announced by local taxi associations, will see fares rise between R2 and R5 depending on the distance travelled, affecting several major routes.
Taxi operators say the increase is unavoidable, citing the continued rise in fuel prices as a major challenge to their livelihoods. A taxi driver at the busy eMlazi taxi rank explained that drivers have been struggling to make ends meet. “The increase in petrol has affected us negatively because we were not making any profit. Most of what we earned went straight into fuel,” he said, adding that the slight fare adjustment may help them recover costs and maintain a sustainable income.
However, commuters have voiced concern over the impact of the increase. Sduduzo Dludla, who relies on a R350 social grant, said even a small hike makes a difference. “It might not seem like much, but it means I now have to cut R56 from my monthly budget,” he said.
University student Asanda Mkhize echoed similar frustrations, noting that while he understands the reasons behind the hike, it adds to the burden of balancing transport, food, and education costs. “My allowance is already not enough,” he said.
As fuel prices continue to climb, both commuters and taxi operators face tough economic realities.
