Passengers at Kisii bus stage. [Photo/Dennis Chacha]Matatu operators in Kisii have said they were forced to hike fares to various destinations after NTSA banned night travels.
The operators said the hike in fares is meant to meet the daily target after night travels were declared illegal.
“We have incurred huge losses after NTSA banned night travels. The hike in fares from Kisii to various destinations is to enable cater for the banned night travels,” said Joseph Mogesa, a driver plying Kisii – Nairobi route.
He said the fares will drop if night travels will be allowed.
Seberio Okundi, another driver said the hike in fares will help in paying conductors, drivers and other workers working at the matatu stages who are employed by saccos.
“The government is the reason for hiked fares. Residents should not blame us because we also have families that depend on us,” Onkundi noted.
He added that locals should brace for hard times if the government will not allow night travels.
Anyone traveling from Kisii to Nairobi is paying Sh1,500 - 1,800 for buses and Sh2,000 for shuttles.