Bus Operators: ‘This is not a price increase. This is just a price alignment.’

Commuters can breathe a sigh of relief, at least for the moment.

The Belize Bus Association (BBA) has backed away from its threat to halt all bus runs on Monday after what it described as a lengthy and productive meeting with Minister of Transport, Dr. Louis Zabaneh, on Thursday.

But the reprieve may be short-lived.

Association President Phillip Jones told News Five that the minister has agreed to take the group’s concerns, including their call for a fare adjustment, to Cabinet next Tuesday. The outcome of that meeting could determine whether buses stay on the road.

“It was a long meeting. We discussed some issues that were affecting us besides the hike in fuel,” Jones said. “The minister requested time because Cabinet would be meeting on Tuesday and he will need the support from Cabinet to assist us.”

Jones explained that the National Bus Company (NBC) currently charges 19 cents per mile, while other operators are capped at 14 cents per mile. The association is asking for what it describes as a fare “alignment” to level the playing field.

Jones said that in good faith, the association has agreed to hold off on industrial action while awaiting Cabinet’s decision.