Public Transport Fare Increase
The fare for the bus route from the 'Lisova' metro station to Brovary has risen to 50 UAH (hryvnias), effective March 23. This marks the second price hike this year, following an increase from 35 to 40 UAH on February 1. In less than two months, the total fare increase for this route amounts to 15 UAH. These rising costs are part of a broader trend affecting public transportation affordability in the region.
Lack of Clear Communication
Passengers were only informed of the new fare on March 22, when it was reported in two local publications. No official notices were posted inside the buses, leading to frustration among commuters. One driver, when questioned, reportedly stated that the increase was announced only as passengers boarded and offered the old fare, directing them to online sources for information. This lack of clear onboard notification has been a significant point of contention.
"The driver announces the price increase only when boarding the minibus, as passengers hand him the old amount. When asked where the official warning or announcement in the cabin is, he replies that 'it was written all over the internet'." - Correspondent for 'Hlavkom'
Other recent fare changes include a 5-7 UAH increase for Kyiv's circular electric train (commuter rail) starting March 13. However, as of the publication date, tickets could still be purchased for the old price of 15 UAH via the 'Ukrzaliznytsia' and 'Kyiv Digital' apps. Additionally, the fare for route No. 434 rose to 20 UAH on March 14. Unlike the Brovary route, this change was accompanied by proper notices inside the buses, highlighting an inconsistency in communication practices.
The fare hikes have caused considerable concern among passengers, primarily due to the lack of timely and transparent communication. Official notices inside the minibuses could have prevented misunderstandings. This series of increases across different routes indicates a wider trend of rising public transport costs in the area, which may impact the affordability of daily commutes for many residents.
The recent fare increases in Brovary are not isolated incidents. Commuters in Kyiv have also faced similar hikes, with the fare for route No. 434 now set at 20 UAH. This change was communicated more effectively, with proper notices provided inside the buses. To understand the broader implications of these fare adjustments and the differences in communication strategies, read more about the changes in Kyiv's minibus fares here.