The New Nation - Internet Edition

THE common people are unlikely to get the benefits of the latest slash in oil prices in the face of the refusal of the transport owners to comply with the directive of the present government to reduce fare, 'until a new government takes office after the elections'. As part of the promised review of the fuel price structure every three months, the government has adjusted oil prices with effect from 23rd December. The average reduction amounts to more than six percent. This has been done following the latest fall of oil prices in the international market. In line with this, the government decided to reduce fares for inter-district buses by Tk.0.02 per kilometre and that of diesel-run tank-lorries by Tk.0.01. The proposed reduction is not proportionate to the percentages of oil price cut, yet the people are not going to benefit from it due to non-compliance. Alleging that the government took the decision regarding transport fares without consulting them, the owners of long-distance bus services have decided not to cut fares. On the other hand, tank lorry owners have reportedly termed government adjustment of fares as irrational. They did not reduce transport fares following the previous 12 percent cut is oil prices in October.

The question is, whether the government can implement its decision in face of refusal by the transport owners. The administration should ensure that the people get the benefit of the oil price cut. It is not a good instance that government decisions are violated repeatedly on different excuses. The administration should take all stakeholders into confidence so that none can take advantage of any loopholes in decision-making. The bus fares in the cities should also be adjusted. Reduction in oil prices should be reflected in commodity prices.