Overview:
Riding the Wave: Palau Expands Bus Services Amid Fuel Price Surge
With global fuel prices rising, Palau is putting more seats on the road. The national public transportation program has added full-size buses and drivers to help residents and visitors travel affordably between states.
Government expands routes and capacity as global conflict pushes fuel prices higher
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau (Island Times) — Palau is expanding its national public transportation program, adding buses and increasing passenger capacity to help residents cope with rising fuel prices linked to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran.
Public buses are currently operating on several routes, including Koror to Melekeok, Melekeok to Koror, and Ngarchelong to Koror and back.
Minister of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development Ngirai Tmetuchel said the government recently replaced a 12-seat van that had been servicing the Ngarchelong-Koror route with a full-size bus to accommodate more passengers.
The smaller van frequently reached capacity before completing its route, he said.
“Public transportation is another answer to address the fuel price hikes,” Tmetuchel said.
The new bus has significantly increased seating capacity on the route, where at least 18 passengers are now riding daily between Ngarchelong and Koror.
To support the expanded service, the ministry has also hired two additional bus drivers after previously facing a shortage of drivers.
Tmetuchel said the government is also considering expanding services further, particularly to Ngerulmud in Melekeok State.
He said multiple buses may begin operating on that route as early as next month to meet transportation needs for both residents and tourists visiting a hotel in the area.
Currently, four buses are operating within the national transportation program.
Bus schedules and designated stops remain unchanged for now, according to the ministry.
Tmetuchel added that additional buses could be added in the future, particularly as Palau prepares to host the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum.
Updated schedules and any future route changes will be posted on the Facebook pages of the Palau Visitors Authority and the Ministry of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development.
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