Fares for TABSA transport services on routes connecting Punta Arenas with Porvenir and Primera Angostura are set to rise by an average of 21% starting Thursday, April 9. In response, regional and provincial authorities in Tierra del Fuego have immediately activated a contingency plan to protect local residents.
Regional Presidential Delegate Ericka Farías confirmed that government agencies are currently working on specific solutions for passengers traveling for medical, professional, or family reasons. The administration's goal is to mitigate the economic impact this increase could have on the region's connectivity.
Meanwhile, Tierra del Fuego Delegate Margarita Norambuena assured that existing subsidies will not only be maintained but expanded. The provincial official aims to ensure that the movement of people between towns is not disrupted by rising costs.
Benefits for Seniors and Local Transport
Among the confirmed measures, current rates will be frozen for senior residents of Porvenir. Additionally, these passengers will be entitled to one free trip per month, provided they hold valid accreditation.
Authorities also guaranteed the continuity of all existing agreements with various social and age-based groups within the province. Furthermore, the central government has reaffirmed its financial support for the taxi, school bus, and small vessel sectors, ensuring that subsidies for these services remain unaffected.
TABSA General Manager Cristóbal Kulczewski justified the price adjustment by pointing to a nearly 90% surge in international diesel costs. Kulczewski noted that the company absorbed these rising costs for more than a month before implementing the new fare structure.
The executive described the measure as temporary and subject to periodic reviews based on fuel market trends. Regional authorities stated they will continuously monitor diesel prices to ensure all agreements are upheld.
Any future decrease in fuel costs must be mandatorily and proportionally reflected in a reduction of passenger fares. Local government will maintain strict oversight of pricing on the affected routes.