Belle said that minibus operators are now spending between $1,000 and $1,500 more on fuel for their daily operation since the price increased.

During last week there was a sharp increase in the price of gasoline, diesel and kerosene oil. As a result, the retail prices at the Guyoil service stations went up to $450 per gallon for gasoline and $380 per gallon for diesel.

Other companies have retail prices averaging $450- $470 per gallon for gasoline and $385 and $395 per gallon for diesel. The price for gasoline has risen to about $100 more per gallon.

Following the hike in price, the Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce had issued a press release, which stated the increase is due to the unavailability of fuel from Venezuela and the corresponding higher acquisition cost concomitant with higher world market prices.

However, the release said Government believes that the situation will be temporary and is making every effort to source cheaper supplies if the situation persists.

Belle who operates a bus service on the Kitty/ Campbellville “route 40,” said GPTA Executives would be meeting shortly to look at ways of sustaining the current fare structure if the price does not drop.

“We would hate to increase the fare for passenger, but it would become difficult to keep running at $30. Our income is going to drop considerably. What we may have to do is work some additional hours in an effort to continue making our target”.

He said if the fuel price remains at the current figure, that would inevitably impact on the all round cost to operate as well. He pointed out that the cost for spares for example, will go up.

A minibus driver who operates along the Sophia route said the current price for gasoline, which could lead to an increase in price for spare parts, could possibly force him and many other drivers to seek other means of employment.