Bus fare increased by 60 per cent with effect from June 1, 2020.
The announcement came by the government through a circular issued by the Road, Transport and Bridges Ministry on Sunday afternoon.
The enhanced rate of the fare will be applicable only during the Covid-19 pandemic crisis period. The original fare rates will be reinstated as soon as the crisis ends.
It also made conditions for public transports while carrying passengers after resumption of their services.
Two passengers cannot sit together and must maintain social distancing. One seat has to be kept vacant between two passengers, the circular mentioned.
Buses cannot carry more passengers than the number of seats mentioned as per their registration certificates, the circular said adding that no standing passengers will be allowed. Health guidelines need to be followed while transporting passengers.
On Saturday, BRTA recommended raising bus fare by 80% in order to compensate bus owners carrying 50 percent less passengers to prevent the transmission of coronavirus.
Passengers, drivers, helpers, and ticket sellers must wear face masks while hand sanitizer, soaps, and hand washing facilities must be available at terminals. The government on Thursday issued a gazette notification allowing limited operation of public transport and offices from May 31 to June 15 amid the coronavirus outbreak.
On May 3, 2016, Bangladesh Road Transport Authority (BRTA) re-fixed fare of long-route buses at Tk 1.42 per kilometer reducing it by three paisa across the country except Dhaka, its adjacent areas and Chittagong metropolitan cities.