Passengers plying Migori-Isebania route resort to being ferried in Probox boots as arbitrary hike in PSV fare bites

A section of Migori residents have appealed to the county to regulate matatus plying the Migori-Isebania highway, citing arbitrary hiking of fares by operators.

The claims come as the fare between the two destinations fluctuates on daily basis without prior-notice, causing inconveniences to passengers.

Speaking to Wananchi Reporting, the locals said that ordinarily the fare has been Ksh. 100/- but  of late fluctuates between Ksh. 200-300 and can go higher at night.

According to Job Misana, a resident of Isebania and a cleaner operating between the two towns is becoming too expensive.

"I've been working as a casual labourer for two months and I think with my wages I will not survive. It's better to look for something else. Paying almost Ksh. 500/- per day in bus fare is not feasible," he said.

Another section of commuters said that they resort to being stacked in the boot of some vehicles in order to pay half the fare, and even then they still cannot afford it.

This despite it being illegal to ferry passengers in the boot.

Defending operators, one driver attributed the hike to the cost of fuel and high cost of living, saying they are forced to raise fare to remain profitable because many are servicing loans.

"As you know, life has changed, things have doubled in price, including petrol," he said.