In a decisive move to support commuters amid rising living costs, Golden Arrow Bus Services (GABS) has revealed plans to adjust selected cash fares by an average of 4.5%, effective from 28 September 2026, Cape {town} Etc reports.
The announcement, however, comes with the welcome news that Gold Card multi-journey tickets will remain unchanged, ensuring that passengers who pre-purchase their rides will not face additional fare burdens.
The changes, which were met with approval from the Western Cape Minister of Mobility, Isaac Sileku, underscore the operator’s commitment to minimising the financial strain on commuters during these challenging economic times.
Sileku expressed gratitude for GABS’s decision to limit the fare hike, emphasising that public transport is essential for many Cape Town residents navigating lengthy daily commutes.
‘For many Cape Town residents, public transport is a daily necessity. Many travel long distances between home and work, with transport costs forming a significant part of their monthly household expenses,’ Sileku noted.
‘This comes at a time when families are already managing rising living costs and multiple financial commitments,’ he added.
Originally, GABS requested a fare increase proposal in August, targeting a 1 September implementation. However, after further discussions, the operator postponed the increase and opted for a revised fare adjustment that focuses primarily on off-peak cash fares and selected peak cash fares only.
Key components of the upcoming fare adjustments include:
- An average fare increase of 4.5% primarily affecting selected off-peak cash fares.
- No increase for Gold Card multi-journey tickets, protecting upfront commuters.
- Most peak cash fares will also remain unchanged.
Sileku highlighted the measures taken by GABS as a testament to prioritising affordability in public transport fare adjustments.
‘We know that many residents travel long distances every day to get to work, school, and other essential destinations. For households already dealing with the high cost of living and many financial commitments, every additional transport cost matters,’ he explained.
Reinforcing the critical role of public transport in the lives of residents, Sileku urged continued collaboration to ensure that services remain accessible and affordable, particularly for those who rely on them for their daily needs.
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Picture: Brenton Geach / Gallo Images
