Starting Monday, the public transport bus fleet will be reduced by 30% if there is no response from institutions regarding the increase in fuel prices. In a statement to the media, associations representing economic operators said they are facing numerous difficulties due to rising costs, but so far have received no response from either central or local authorities.

They announced three key demands aimed at ensuring the continuity of this service in the interest of citizens. Specifically, they are calling for a review of the fiscal burden on fuel, particularly excise duties and circulation taxes; consideration of a special policy for the public transport sector, including the removal of VAT; and the application of subsidy or compensation mechanisms.

Representatives of the associations stated that despite continuous requests to the responsible institutions, no concrete measures have been taken so far to address the situation.

The request comes at a time when diesel prices at the pump have exceeded 210 lek per liter, up from 175 lek in February.