Impact of fuel price on water transport a cause for concern
Stakeholders discuss appropriate measures
TANZANIA: Stakeholders in the Mwanza, Kigoma and Kagera regions met yesterday to discuss the impact of the increase in fuel prices and engage on appropriate measures to protect the interests of the public as well as the sustainability of the water transportation services.
Speaking on behalf of the Director General of the Tanzania Shipping Agency Corporation (TASAC), the coordinating officers noted that the aim of engagement was to gather opinions before reaching any decision regarding the revision of maritime transport fares.
In the interests of ensuring a participatory and transparent decision-making process, service providers and affected parties have until April 26 to submit comments.
Participants in the meeting emphasised the importance of considering the balance between operating costs and the ability of citizens to afford fares in order to avoid adding to the burden on citizens, especially those who rely on water transport for their daily activities.
Alternative strategies to reduce operating costs were also considered, including the use of renewable energy and improving the efficiency of transport vehicles, instead of relying more on fare increases.
The meetings were convened in accordance with Section 29 of the Tanzania Shipping Agency Act, Chapter 415, which requires TASAC to involve various stakeholders to obtain opinions in various processes that require stakeholder opinions.
Speaking at a meeting held in Kagera Region, the Acting Regional Administrative Secretary (RAS) of Kagera Region, Isaya Tendega, commended TASAC for organizing the meetings which were held at the right time following the recent changes in fuel prices, a situation that could increase the operating costs of water transport vehicles and affect the lives of citizens.
PHOTO: The meeting was held at the Millennium Plaza Hall in Nansio, Ukerewe, in Kigoma Region, the meeting was held at the Kigoma Social Hall, and in Kagera Region, the meeting was held at the ELCT Hall in Bukoba Municipality.
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