Matatu operators in Maua town, Meru County, have hiked fares since yesterday, as schools re-opened for the First Term 2023.
From Maua to Meru town, the operators increased the charges from Sh. 250 to Sh. 350, leaving many parents and students stranded.
Michael Mutuma, a parent, maintained that the increased fare has badly affected him, because he had three children reporting back to school, hence the total difference in the fare makes a huge difference in his Budget.
“Any increase is a big burden to us, since even putting food on the table is not easy. The 100-bob added is really pinching.’ he lamented.
The hiked fare left many parents confused and complaining of how the matatu sector took advantage of school re-opening, forcing them to dig deeper into their pockets, without minding the harsh economic times faced by parents during back-to-school period.
Speaking to one of Matatu drivers in Maua Bus Stage who sought anonymity, said that the rise of the fare was expected since to them, it was an opportunity which comes once in a while hence, they have to utilize it to the maximum.