Bus ticket prices hiked ahead of the holiday

Citizens planning their travels as Eid al-Adha approaches are closely monitoring the increase in bus ticket prices. With the holiday period extended to nine days, activity at bus terminals has visibly increased. According to information from the passenger transport sector, some companies have switched to higher prices in response to the growing demand.

Bus company employees described the high interest from those wanting to travel out of the city with the words, "There is quite a high demand this holiday because the break is long." On the other hand, an official addressing the impact of high costs stated, "We haven't been able to reflect much of the price increases in fuel onto our fares until now."

Due to rising fuel and highway toll costs, bus ticket prices are seeing an average increase of 20 percent. Officials from the Turkish Bus Operators Federation state that the new prices are being implemented gradually, noting that significant changes in fares will be seen especially during the holiday week.

One employee explained the change in prices as follows: "The hiked prices are coming. A ticket to Düzce is 650 TL now, but it will be around 750 TL during the holiday week." Another staff member, evaluating recent fuel prices, emphasized the seriousness of the situation by saying, "The price of oil is well known. The current rates just aren't covering costs."

According to Show Haber, some companies have already begun applying the increased tariffs. Prices have risen noticeably, especially for long-distance travel. Those wishing to buy a bus ticket from Ankara to Gaziantep are paying 1,600 TL under the new tariff. A company official stated that the price hike had already begun, saying, "We have reflected it; it's been about 5-6 days."

Price increases have been more pronounced on buses heading to eastern provinces. While ticket prices for trips to Van were recently at the 1,700-1,800 TL level, they have now risen to as much as 2,700 TL. Officials stated that the increased prices will be valid on all routes starting from May 15.

News Source: 12punto