Taxi-colectivo operators in Castro, Los Lagos, will implement a $200 fare increase starting in mid-May. The adjustment follows a consensus among local transport lines to address rising operational expenses.
The new pricing structure sets a flat rate of $1,000 for trips occurring between 6:00 and 00:00, Monday through Sunday, including holidays. For late-night service, the fare will rise to $1,500.
Lucy Gómez, president of the Federación de Taxis Colectivos Nueva Esperanza de Castro, stated the decision responds to the continuous rise in fuel prices. She also pointed to the absence of effective state subsidies for the transport sector.
Financial pressure on drivers
Gómez noted that the current state contribution of $100,000 is no longer enough to sustain operations. She emphasized that drivers are facing significant financial strain due to the volatility of the energy market.
"Unfortunately, fuel prices rise for drivers first, but they also have the same expenses as anyone else," Gómez said. "We have to recognize that at this moment, they are already very disadvantaged, especially the driver."
The president explained that the increase is a necessary measure to help drivers cover basic daily costs. She noted that any period of vehicle downtime directly impacts a driver's ability to provide for their household.
"If a vehicle does not function at any point, the driver simply has no money for their home that day," Gómez added. "Even with $1,000, we are not covering everything, but we are thinking about our people, so we will have to bear this increase."
Each transport line reached this decision through internal meetings. The operators have already notified the Ministry of Transport of the changes within the required legal timeframe.
Local transport lines have completed the notification process to ensure the public is informed of the new rates. This follows the standard protocols required for fare adjustments in the region.
The taxi-colectivo industry remains a vital component of Castro's infrastructure. Approximately 403 vehicles operate within the commune, with roughly 250 belonging to the federation.
Drivers must navigate these increasing operational costs to ensure daily revenue remains stable. The scale of the fleet means the fare adjustment will affect a significant portion of the local commuting population.