By: Dawda M. Jallow
Frustrated commuters in Brikama have accused traffic police of failing to regulate transport fares, as the cost of daily travel continues to rise sharply across key routes within the Greater Banjul Area.
In interviews conducted yesterday, several residents said it is the responsibility of traffic officers to monitor and control fare charges, questioning their role amid what they described as “unchecked and inconsistent” increases by commercial drivers.
Ebrima Mboob, a regular commuter to Banjul, said passengers now face unpredictable fares on a daily basis.
He explained that before the recent fuel price increase, transport from Brikama to Banjul cost D45, but has since risen to D75 for commercial vehicles and up to D100 for seven-passenger vehicles.
“This situation needs the intervention of the authorities,” he said. “Drivers are charging different amounts at will, and it is becoming difficult for ordinary people to cope.”
He called on the Ministry of Transport to step in and enforce clear regulations, adding that traffic officers should ensure fares are monitored before vehicles leave the garage.
Ramatoulie Jallow, a nurse, also expressed concern over the impact of the increases on her daily routine. She said she now spends more than D150 to reach Westfield, noting that some drivers refuse to load passengers who cannot meet the demanded fare.
“Sometimes you are left stranded or get late for work because you cannot afford what they are asking,” she said.
“This is happening everywhere, especially at Serekunda Garage in the evenings.”
Another commuter, Momodou Alieu Jallow, said while traffic officers are present on the roads, more attention should be given to fare control.
He argued that stricter enforcement and penalties could discourage drivers from imposing arbitrary increases.
“If proper rules are enforced, drivers will think twice,” he said, adding that the current situation reflects broader economic challenges affecting citizens.
Binta Darboe, a businesswoman based in Westfield, described the situation as overwhelming, questioning the sustainability of current fares. “Paying D75 just to reach Westfield is too much. People are really struggling,” she said, urging authorities to act.
Commuters acknowledged that fuel price adjustments have had an impact but argued that the increases imposed by drivers go beyond what is reasonable.
They called on the Gambia Police Force and relevant authorities to intervene and ensure that fares remain fair and regulated.
For many, the rising cost of transport is no longer just an inconvenience but a growing burden on already strained household incomes.