Several drivers took advantage of the ongoing confusion over fares by painting new ticket prices of 7.50 pesos on their bus windows. A number of local politicians have slammed the proposed hike of fees and criticized Jalisco Governor Emilio Gonzalez for failing to take control of the situation.
“The governor needs to pull his pants up and take decisions that work for our citizens and seek a fair outcome,” said Tlaquepaque Mayor Castro Reynoso.
Guadalajara Mayor Aristoteles Sandoval also spoke out against any rise in fares but said citizens must “understand the needs of the bus drivers too.” He called on the federal government to suspend the monthly hikes in fuel prices and proposed a subsidy for public transport gasoline costs, as occurs in the state of Nuevo Leon.
Having threatened a strike, the bus drivers backed down when it was announced that the State Transport Department chiefs will meet with representatives of the bus companies to discuss the issue on Monday.
Bus fares are currently set at 6 pesos, meaning a 1.50-peso rise represents a 25 percent increase. Although 7.50 pesos may not seem like a lot, for workers who have to take several buses on a daily basis it can quickly add up to a considerable portion of their income.