High fares, overcrowding, reckless driving fuel call for structured public transport system

With concerns about transportation costs and safety concerns mounting, commuters are calling on the Government to introduce a structured, and if possible, a state-run public transportation system, arguing that it would provide a reliable alternative to privately operated minibuses and bring much-needed order to the sector.
Guyana Times spoke with several commuters who reveal a shared frustration with what many describe as an unregulated system, where fares fluctuate, safety standards are inconsistent, and passengers often have little recourse when issues arise.
For teacher Stephon Johnson, the situation has become increasingly burdensome for those who depend on public transport daily.
“Transportation fares have definitely become more challenging recently. In many cases, the cost feels inconsistent, and sometimes you’re asked to pay more than the standard fare, especially during peak hours or in areas where options are limited,” Johnson said.
Beyond cost, he pointed to safety issues that continue to plague the system, including overcrowding and reckless driving.
“Overcrowding is a major concern, buses are often packed beyond capacity, which is uncomfortable and risky… more concerning, however, is the dangerous driving. Some drivers speed, overtake recklessly, and prioritize getting more passengers over ensuring safety,” he explained.
Johnson believes a government-operated system could address many of these concerns.
“A state-managed system could bring much-needed order, consistency, and accountability. It would help regulate fares, improve safety standards, and provide a more reliable service for citizens,” he added.
Similar concerns were raised by Vernika Clarke, who said fare increases have placed a significant strain on commuters already facing a high cost of living.
“Fares have gone up too much, too fast. What used to cost passengers $160 from Bachelor’s Adventure to Georgetown is now $300–$500, and that’s if the conductor doesn’t decide to charge more because it’s raining or late,” Clarke said.

“This is ridiculous”
Highlighting the broader impact, she noted, “It’s cutting into money people need for food and school supplies. This is ridiculous.”
Clarke argued that the absence of a government alternative has allowed private operators to act without sufficient accountability.
“Right now, private operators do what they want because some people have no other choice,” she said, adding, “A public bus system with set routes, fixed fares, trained drivers, and scheduled times would bring accountability… People deserve safe, affordable transport to get to work and school.”
Teacher Leah Collymore also underscored the financial strain, explaining that transportation costs are now shaping how people go about their daily routines.
“Speaking honestly, the hike in transportation cost has basically forced us to either stay home… or try our best to do all our business in one day because nobody wants to spend almost $20,000 in transportation costs a day,” she said.
She recounted instances where passengers feel compelled to accept increased fares to avoid delays or confrontation.
“I remember one instance where I knew the fare was $300… but when I handed the driver the money, he said it’s supposed to be $500. I said OKAY and gave him the extra because I had no time for an unnecessary confrontation,” Collymore related.
Like others, she supports the introduction of a state-run system.
“A public bus system with a standardized price for routes seems best at this point in time,” she said.
University student Christia Bollers described the current system as inconsistent and, at times, exploitative, particularly for those with limited transportation options.
“Drivers have been charging whatever works for their convenience… if you really want to go, that bus is the only option you have,” she said.
She added that safety concerns further compound the issue.
“I do not feel safe using these buses on the road, because drivers tend to use the road recklessly… buses are also overpacked, and that creates safety issues,” Bollers noted.
According to her, a government-run system could significantly improve reliability and accessibility.
“I do believe that the government should introduce a public bus system… it would help with the problems of being overcharged, and having a schedule would mean people can be guaranteed that they will get a bus,” she said, while also pointing to benefits for schoolchildren and elderly commuters.

Modern transportation network
Providing a broader perspective, citizen Xavier Holmes argued that Guyana’s ongoing economic transformation demands a modern transportation network capable of supporting growth.
“To keep pace with global standards, the government must introduce a state-owned, integrated public transportation system,” Holmes said.
He also explained that such a system should include structured routes, scheduled services, and professionally trained staff, noting that modernization is essential for both efficiency and national image.
“Ultimately… it is about dignity, efficiency, and signaling to the world that Georgetown is a sophisticated, forward-thinking city ready for the future,” Holmes added.
He contended that the current informal system is no longer adequate for a capital city experiencing increased investment and population movement.
“To keep pace with global standards, the government must introduce a state-owned, integrated public transportation system,” he stated.
Holmes explained that modern transport systems in developed cities rely on structured, high-capacity services operating on predictable schedules.
“In such cities, large buses arrive every five minutes during peak hours and utilize dedicated lanes to bypass traffic, ensuring that public transit is often more efficient than driving a personal vehicle,” he noted.
Meanwhile, Nurse Angela Pitt said, “I am struggling. Imagine working long hours, finishing at four in the afternoon, and having to wait three hours before you can catch a bus to go home. By the time I get home, I am too tired to do anything. It’s like I worked a 12-hour shift. Then you have to deal with the traffic and the reckless driving. If you talk too loudly, they will put you off their buses. These buses don’t even pick up elderly people. They pass them straight. How are these old people going to make out on their pension if they have to pay taxi?”
“Now, these drivers and conductors are smoking weed in the buses, and the vulgar music is awful, even with children in there. We need the government to provide buses so we can feel safer”.