Mixed Response to Bus Fare Cut in Osh

Bus fares are falling from five soms (about 12 US cents) to four, while the privately-operated “marshrutkas” or shared minibus taxis are being told to cut prices from eight to five soms.



City councils reason that since fares went up in line with oil prices last year, it is only reasonable they should come down again as petrol and diesel imports get cheaper – one of the few blessings of the global economic crisis.



Pensioners and other vulnerable groups have welcomed the move, but marshrutka drivers, in particular, warn that it could put them out of business.