The Ministry of Works and Transport has okayed the increase in transport fares following the hike in fuel prices.
In a letter dated April 22, Byamukama Fred, the state minister for works and transport, said that the increment of taxi fares has been well-reviewed to ensure that they are not exploitative.
“The ministry is therefore aware of the justifiable increments in transport fares based on the prevailing cost of fuel,” Byamukama said in a statement.
According to the reviewed proposal, taxis plying shorter routes will charge between Shs500 and Shs1000 on top of the current fares, while those plying longer distances will charge an additional fee of between Shs3000 and Shs5000.
“The public transporters have agreed to lower fares once the fuel prices stabilize,” said the ministry.
Last week, taxi operators under the umbrella, of the Uganda Taxi Operators Federation resolved to increase transport fares over soaring fuel prices.
Petrol and diesel pump prices now exceed Shs5,000 per litre at many petrol stations countrywide.