MASERU, Feb.16- Public transport commuters may soon be required to pay at least M22 for local taxi fares, following a pricing formula proposed by a consultant engaged by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport to review the current fare structure.
The consultant was tasked with developing a new pricing model for public transport after operators raised concerns over rising operational costs. According to the report, the cost-based fare formula suggests M22, while the benchmark for passenger affordability stands at M15.
Maseru Region Transport Operators Deputy Chairperson Mr. Sehloho Sehloho said in an interview on Monday that the proposed M22 fare is not yet final. He explained that operators and the consultant agreed that the report be reviewed due to identified loopholes.
Mr. Sehloho noted that transport operators had initially proposed an increase from the current M13 to M15 in June last year, citing the absence of fare adjustments since 2023. He said operators have incurred significant losses over the past two years, particularly as the government did not provide fuel subsidies during that period.
“Our overall concern is that fare adjustments should reflect the actual daily operational costs we incur,” he said.
He further indicated that the engagement of a consultant was contrary to their earlier agreement with the Road Transport Board, which provides for annual fare adjustments. According to Mr. Sehloho, operators had expected fares to be reviewed in April 2025 at the beginning of the government’s financial year.
Previously, fare adjustments were determined using an outdated method that largely compared general economic conditions without adequately factoring in the real operating costs faced by operators.
The consultant’s report, however, highlights the financial realities within the transport sector and identifies gaps in the previous pricing approach. Its findings form the basis of a proposed framework aimed at setting fares more realistically, taking into account both operators’ sustainability and passengers’ affordability.
The Ministry has acknowledged the need for a more transparent and accurate pricing system that balances the interests of transport operators and commuters. The initiative is expected to promote fairness, predictability and reduce disputes over fare increases.
Lesotho’s public transport fares are regulated under a cost-plus model administered by the Road Transport Board, which considers fuel prices, inflation and other operating costs.
The last fare adjustment was effected in December 2023 following negotiations between transport operators and government, setting local fares at M13.
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