Kingston, Jamaica – June 2, 2026: The Minister of Energy,
Transport and Telecommunications has announced a 16% fare adjustment for all
categories of public passenger vehicles (PPVs), effective immediately. This
adjustment will be implemented in two phases: an initial increase of 8% on June
2, 2026, followed by a further increase of 8% on July 1, 2026
Minister Vaz stressed that this
phased adjustment was approved to balance PPV operators' operating realities
with the need to reduce the immediate impact on commuters. Operators are
reminded that only the approved fares should be charged and that the increase
must be applied strictly in accordance with the rates authorized for each
phase.
The Authority is urging all PPV
operators across the island to comply fully with the new rates and to refrain
from any form of overcharging, unauthorized fare increases, or passenger
exploitation. The Authority stated that overcharging is a serious breach of the
rules governing the sector and undermines public confidence in the public
transportation system.
Commuters are therefore encouraged to
report any act of overcharging or any demand for fares above the approved rates
to the Transport Authority. The Managing Director, Mr. Ralston Smith, stated
that public reporting is an important part of ensuring accountability and
fairness in the sector. He stated that all complaints received will be examined
by the Authority to ensure that justice is served. Smith further cautions PPV
operators that failure to comply with the approved fare structure may result in
enforcement action. This may include the suspension or revocation of a road
licence.
The Authority is therefore urging
all PPV operators to act responsibly, observe the law, and provide fair and
professional service to the travelling public. Managing Director, Mr. Ralston Smith,
stressed that the Authority remains committed to protecting commuters
while promoting an orderly, lawful, and sustainable public transportation
system. All stakeholders are being urged to support the proper implementation
of the approved fares in the interest of fairness, safety, and national
development.
To support this initiative, the Authority will
intensify its monitoring efforts. Members of the public are encouraged to
report any instances of fare overcharging to the Transport Authority by calling
876-926-8912 or messaging via WhatsApp at 876-551-8196 or 876-279-8515.
A comprehensive list of approved fares will be published in the print media. Please see Fare Calculation Card attached.
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Contact:
Corporate Communications
CUG: 876-277-9671
