Putco bus warns of possible fare hike as diesel prices surge

Putco bus company has revealed that its operating expenses have risen from 25% to 35% following a recent fuel price increase. The operator warns that commuters could face another fare hike in the coming months due to the surge in fuel costs, particularly diesel prices. In June, Putco raised its fares by 10% in response to a spike in diesel costs resulting from higher crude oil prices.

Putco spokesperson Lindokuhle Xulu has stated that if fuel prices keep rising, the current bus fares would become unsustainable. Commuters have reportedly been calling for relief from the fare increases, with some expressing a desire for a reprieve. Xulu notes that the operator, which operates a fleet of over 1300 buses, has seen its fuel spending increase from R42 million to over R51 million in the previous month, leading to the current 35% increase from the previous 25%.