Public bus drivers in Sint Maarten are calling for urgent government action after a packed emergency meeting over rising fuel prices and unchanged fares.
The United Bus Driver Association said drivers gathered Friday evening at the WIFOL building on Walter Nisbeth Road to discuss the growing financial pressure facing the sector. Operators say they are being squeezed by higher fuel costs, maintenance, insurance, spare parts, and other daily expenses, while government-regulated fares remain the same.
Drivers say frustration is growing because promises of a fare adjustment have repeatedly been made but not delivered. They pointed in particular to a commitment that fares would be updated by January 2026, which came and went without action or explanation.
Operators warn the situation is becoming unsustainable, with many working longer hours for less income and some fearing they may eventually be pushed out of business. They are now demanding a clear timeline and immediate action from authorities on long-promised fare changes.