THE latest increase in fuel prices has added to the financial burden faced by ordinary Fijians, with workers and transport operators saying they are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet.
Retired police sergeant and chairman of Crime Prevention Zone 7 at Nabua Muslim League, Suva, Jacob Joseph, said the rising cost of fuel, kerosene and cooking gas was making life harder for low-income families.
“Life is very hard now regarding the fuel crisis,” he said.
“Even the gas prices have gone up and the fuel and kerosene. It’s very hard for poor people to survive.”
Mr Joseph made a humble appeal to Government to consider measures that could help reduce fuel and gas prices and ease pressure on struggling households.
Taxidriver Ravind Nand, who has been in the industry for about 13 years, said increasing fuel costs were eating into drivers’ earnings.
“Before it was good, we could buy fuel and save something for our family,” he said.
“Now, after paying income and filling fuel, there are no savings to take home. It is very hard.”
Mr Nand said taxidrivers were also grappling with increasing competition and rising operating costs, urging Government to consider reducing VAT or implementing measures to assist low-income earners.
Meanwhile, Nasali boat driver Jonetame Bisau of Nadoi, Rewa, said boat operators were also feeling the impact of higher fuel prices.
“We are facing difficulties with the increase in fuel prices,” he said.
Mr Bisau said many boat drivers paid income to vessel owners and received no assistance to offset rising fuel costs.
Despite the challenges, he said boat operators remained committed to serving communities across Rewa.
