Putco 10% Fare Hike

Putco, South Africa's largest public bus operator, will increase bus fares by an average of 10% from June 1, 2026. This decision comes as record-high diesel costs, fueled by global geopolitical tensions, have driven the company's fuel bill to a breaking point. Diesel prices in South Africa surged to about R32 per litre, placing severe strain on Putco's operational sustainability. Despite absorbing millions of rands in cumulative diesel-related increases over April and May, Putco found the fare adjustment unavoidable to ensure continued reliable transport services. The company had previously delayed increases to protect passengers and submitted requests for fuel relief to the South Africa — Gauteng Department of Roads and Transport, supported by the Southern African Bus Operators Association. However, these efforts have not resulted in sustainable interventions, with only temporary fuel levy adjustments from the South Africa government providing limited relief. While the South Africa — Central Energy Fund data suggests some fuel price recoveries, the expiration of the government's temporary levy cut threatens to negate these benefits.